Breaking Convention: Amanda Fielding

Breaking Convention

London, UK and Zoom

April 20, 2024

This conference I attended online, for logistical reasons. It was great opportunity to learn more about the history, research, and educational efforts around psychedelics in the UK.

While there were many interesting and relevant sessions, the conversation David Luke had with Amanda Fielding and Cosmo Mellon-Fielding is what I can't stop thinking about over a week later.

Intentions

• Learn

• Enjoy

• Share the experience with my peers

In a conversation with Dr David Luke at the 1-day Breaking Convention event,  Amanda Feilding and her son, Cosmo Feilding-Mellon shared insights into her profound commitment to funding LSD research on both macro and micro levels, while Cosmo explored the potential of intravenous psilocybin for shorter psychedelic experiences.

I appreciated that Amanda's journey in the psychedelic field reflects a tireless dedication to advancing research and bringing these substances back into societal discourse. Despite the hurdles and stigma faced along the way, she remains dedicated to her mission. She acknowledges the progress made since the tumultuous '60s and '70s but emphasizes the need for urgency in furthering this work. As she aptly puts it, "the psychedelic field has come on more than you could have expected... [and] it all needs to be hurried up." And yet...she reflects that "the oracle never tells the time". Things will unfold when they are ready.

Central to Amanda's ethos is her promise to Albert Hofmann to integrate LSD, often dubbed his "problem child," into society. Her journey, marked by moments of working in the shadows as "the weirdo" and in the light as "the visionary," exemplifies the perseverance required to challenge societal norms and effect change. I love her commitment to her promise: that integrity.

It moved me, too, to see the family and connections at work here: mother and son, and Dr Luke's integration into their unit. A beautiful example of psychedelic community.

Seeing Amanda, Cosmo, and David reminded me to be clear in my purpose, stand in my own integrity, focus my energy, and take my time. Useful reminders from a psychedelic family.

Takeaways

• it will take as long it takes

• the power of a vision + tenacity

• psychedelics can be a fun mystery to share with fun, interesting people