Psychedelic Sensationalism: An Analysis of the Schedule Classification of Psilocybin

In 1970, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration passed Controlled Substances Act. This statute classified and banned a variety of drugs including psilocybin, psychoactive component found in Psilocybe Cubensis (also known as "Magic Mushrooms"). Though psilocybin was to possess many medical benefits cause no serious side effects, Act designated it one most dangerous drugs, earning Schedule I classification. meant possession use incurred highest level legal punishment, could not be used under any circumstances, setting. Based on biochemical properties alone, does fit criteria drug, which suggests some other factors must have contributed its paper analyzes primary secondary sources explore anthropological political motives that may influenced psilocybin's schedule The evidence reputation eyes government damaged due association with hippies counterculture movement 1960s 1970s. asserts drug regulation form social control aimed stifle progressive ideals youth reinforce conservative American ideals.