Blog Article

Code of Ethics Update July 25, 2019

On July 25, 2019, The ASI Code of Ethics was updated with an additional tenet in Section 1:

1.31 Teachers should be aware that psychedelic (plant or chemically derived) medicine and other consciousness-altering substances are gaining popularity in spiritual communities. Teachers who recommend the use of psychedelics to their students must do so with great caution primarily because the wide usage of pharmaceutical medication (prescription and over the counter) adds unpredictable complexities that did not feature in the traditional use of indigenous plant medicines. If students are taking medication that is mood-altering or have a history of mental health issues, psychedelics are not appropriate. It is important that teachers educate themselves in this subject area in order to be fully aware of what is involved for their students. Teachers should also encourage their students to undertake careful research prior to using psychedelics. While psychedelics are a potent and unique spiritual tool, teachers are finding that there is a steadily increasing number of students with long-lasting negative side effects stemming from the use of psychedelic medicine. Long term unnecessary suffering is increasingly evident in people with past experience(s) of mania, psychosis or depersonalization. In addition to the students’ suitability, a teacher must consider the trustworthiness and integrity of the ceremony leader who is holding the space for students orienting towards this path.