Family Research Council Warns Psychedelic Decriminalization “Opening People Up To Demonic Activity”
With the decriminalization of psychedelic compounds looking like a real possibility this upcoming election cycle, opposing forces are speaking out. The latest comes courtesy of Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, who serves as Director of the Center for Family Studies at Family Research Council. Founded in 1983, the group is devoted to promoting and defending traditional family values, religious freedom, and pro-life principles.
During the September 7 edition of Washington Watch hosted by Tony Perkins, Dr. Bauwens explained the historical parallels between psychedelic compounds and sorcery—a profound spiritual dimension is intertwined with the use of certain substances, as observed across various cultures and religions.
You know witchcraft activities, to access the evil realm but they were also doing it with drugs that we now we would know as psychedelic or hallucinogenic drugs. And because they were using that to purposely to access the spirit realm, so these drugs are not something to play with they are very spiritual in nature.
Dr. Jennifer Bauwens, Director of the Center for Family Studies at Family Research Council
In her view, these substances have long been employed as a means to connect with the spiritual realm. Even within Christianity, when delving into scriptural teachings, people can discern cautionary narratives regarding these substances potentially opening individuals to negative spiritual influences.
Contextualizing her view in a biblical context, Dr. Bauwens explains that historians come across references to practices akin to witchcraft—and even instances such as Moses’ encounter with the magicians in Egypt. These magicians engaged not only in what people recognize as witchcraft but also in the consumption of substances, akin to modern-day psychedelics or hallucinogens, deliberately seeking to access the spiritual domain.
Therefore by extension, it is imperative to understand that these substances carry profound spiritual implications and should not be taken lightly. In other words, the ‘gateway’ argument to devious activity that disregards psychedelics’ growing evidence of healing ability.
The utilization of psychedelic substances is gaining broader acceptance in contemporary society. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and Dan Crenshaw (R-Texas) have joined forces to endorse a bill focused on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics in addressing depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among military veterans.
Multiple media platforms are also actively championing the advantages of psychedelic therapy. Nevertheless, amid the concerted effort to highlight these perceived advantages, some experts are sounding the alarm about an array of associated concerns. The non-biblical and scientific kind.
California On Path To Decriminalize Psychedelic Substances
California is taking significant strides toward the potential decriminalization of psychedelic substances, including “magic mushrooms,” as the State Assembly recently voted in favor of this move.
Senate Bill 58, authored by State Senator Scott Weiner, successfully secured a 41-11 vote on the assembly floor, marking a crucial step forward in this legislative process. If enacted, SB 58 would grant individuals aged 21 and older the legal right to possess and use limited quantities of psychedelic substances. It also aims to address the needs of veterans, first responders, and individuals dealing with PTSD, depression, and addiction, providing them with access to these potentially therapeutic plant medicines.
The primary objective of this bill is to decriminalize naturally occurring substances, encompassing psilocybin, psilocin, dimethyltryptamine (DMT), and mescaline, signaling a notable shift in California’s stance on these compounds. Supporters of the legislation argue that psychedelics can be used under controlled circumstances to aid individuals grappling with serious mental afflictions.
TDR will have additional coverage as Bill SB 58 potentially makes its way to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk.
