On Drugs: Psychedelics, Philosophy, and the Nature of Reality

A renowned philosopher takes a clear-eyed look at the mind-expanding potential and mind-blowing implications of psychedelic experiences.

In the wake of a personal loss and the global upheaval of the pandemic, philosopher Justin Smith-Ruiu found himself at a California cannabis dispensary, pondering a simple yet profound question: Who am I, and how did I get here? This moment marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Smith-Ruiu, one that would take him deep into the realm of psychedelics and alter his perception of the world.

On Drugs blends memoir, investigative reporting, and philosophical inquiry as Smith-Ruiu explores the profound impact of psychedelics on the mind and human consciousness. Drawing on a broad range of intellectual history and his personal experiences as “an articulate guinea pig,” he delves into how these substances challenge Western assumptions about reality, the self, and existence. By confronting the essence of our thoughts and perceptions, psychedelics offer a path to a radically new way of thinking and a new philosophical lens that could reshape how we understand ourselves and our place in the universe.

For anyone interested in philosophy, consciousness, or the transformative potential of psychedelics, On Drugs offers an insightful and thought-provoking exploration of mind-altering substances, their impact on modern thought, and the very nature of reality.

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Release date

Audiobook: 23 September 2025