Neuroethics and Psychiatry: Psychedelic Psilocybin аs a „Moral Enhancer“?

The lecture is scheduled for November 22 at 11:00 a.m. and will be held in the Great Hall of the Institute of Social Sciences (as well as via Zoom).

Vojin Rakić will address the possible effects of psychedelic drugs, notably psilocybin, on moral bio-enhancement (MBE). It will be argued that non-psychedelic substances, such as oxytocin, serotonin/serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or vasopressin, have indirect effects on M(B)E, whereas psilocybin has direct effects. Additionally, morality and happiness have been shown to operate in a circularly supportive relationship.

It will be argued that psilocybin also has more direct effects on the augmentation of human happiness than non-psychedelic substances. Hence, psilocybin multiplies its effects on morality and on moral enhancement (as well as on happiness) if compared with non-psychedelic substances. Still, caution is advised if psilocybin is being used, and the correct dosage should be prescribed by an appropriate physician.

Furthermore, the use of psilocybin has additional effects on moral enhancement and happiness if combined with meditation, preferably under the guidance of an experienced meditation specialist.

Vojin Rakić, Head of the Centre for Philosophy at the Institute of Social Sciences, Full Professor, Founding Director of the Center for the Study of Bioethics and Head of the European Division of the International Chair in Bioethics, Cooperating Center of the World Medical Association (WMA). He is also Chair of the Cambridge Working Group for Bioethics Education in Serbia. Rakić has a PhD in Political Science from Rutgers University in the United States (1998). He graduated in philosophy in Serbia and has MA degrees in European Studies from the Central European University in Prague and from the Department of Political Science of Rutgers University. He also has a PhD degree from Rutgers University.