James Fadiman
- President
- Sep 1, 2022
- 3 min read

James Fadiman is an American researcher and expert in the field of psychoactive substances. His work has centered on the study, integration and application of altered states of consciousness. He has also been called upon as an expert witness in legal cases regarding the use, effect and implications of psychoactive substances. Fadiman’s career as a researcher into altered states of consciousness began in 1965 with his publication of “The Use of LSD In Primitive Cultures And Modern Research”. Since then he has worked with many leading figures in the field including Timothy Leary, Sidney Cohen, Ralph Metzner and Aldous Huxley. He serves as an advisor to Several non-profit organizations working in the field of psychoactive research, education and advocacy, including The Council on Spiritual Practices, The Heffter Institute, The New School for Social Research, SENDENDU: Society for Psychoactive Knowledge and Ethnobotany.
Background and Career
James Fadiman’s interest in altered states of consciousness has its roots in his studies at Harvard, where he was introduced to the world of meditation and psychology. His first exposure to psychedelics came in the 60s during a research stay at Stanford University. There, he met and studied with some of the leading figures in the field of psychedelic research and psychotherapy, including Timothy Leary, Richard Alpert and Huston Smith. Fadiman was instrumental in the early research into the use of psychedelics. He was a key member of the Harvard Group, which was the first research group to investigate psychedelics as therapeutic tools.
Author, Investigator & Expert Witness
Fadiman has authored or co-authored a number of articles and books, focusing on the topic of psychedelics and consciousness. He has also served as an investigative researcher, examining the scientific and cultural aspects of drugs, and has been called upon as an expert witness in legal cases regarding the use, effect and implications of psychoactive substances. His article, “The Psychedelic Future”, published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs in 1996, is generally credited with coining the term “microdosing”. Fadiman has also authored “The Psychedelic Explorer’s Guide: Safe, Therapeutic, and Sacred Journeys”, a book intended to guide and inform individuals on “how to do psychedelics”.
Fadiman’s protocol for microdosing
Fadiman’s protocol for microdosing involves taking very small amounts of psychedelic substances, usually once every three days. The exact dose is usually about 10 micrograms of LSD or 0.3 grams of Hawaiian Baby Woodrose seeds, although doses will vary depending on the person, substance and desired result. The protocol involves keeping a regular schedule and consistent dose, as well as setting intentions for the desired results. Fadiman’s protocol is based on the theory that microdosing can increase creativity, help with focus and goal setting, as well as reduce anxiety, promote emotional stability and improve emotional resilience. Although psychedelic substances have been illegal in most countries since the 1960s, there has been a growing interest in recent years in their possible therapeutic and medicinal benefits.
Conclusion
Psychedelic substances have been used for centuries and have been of interest to modern science since the 1950s. As research into their use has increased over recent years, many have come to the conclusion that these substances have positive therapeutic applications in a wide range of fields. Among these is the use of psychedelic substances in the form of microdosing, which some believe to be physiologically safe and effective in increasing creativity, boosting emotional resilience and improving focus. However, caution must be exercised when taking psychedelics, as they are not without potential negative side-effects. Therefore, it is important to exercise self-discipline and follow safe practices when engaging in any psychedelic activity.
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