E3 - Can You Make Empathy Illegal? | with Professor David Nutt

What happens when language becomes more powerful than evidence?

Today, the Wodcast sits down with Professor David Nutt, one of the world's leading neuropsychopharmacologist, psychiatrists and consciousness researchers, for a thought-provoking exploration of language, consciousness and the extraordinary power of words to shape how we think, feel and act.

Together they discuss the origins of the word psychedelic, why MDMA was originally called empathy, how language has influenced public perception and policy, and what happens when words become more powerful than evidence. Along the way, they explore consciousness, curiosity, the role of myth and symbolism, and the profound relationship between science, storytelling and the human experience.

Drawing on decades of pioneering research into the brain, consciousness and psychedelic medicine, Professor Nutt reflects on the importance of questioning inherited narratives, remaining open to new evidence, and approaching some of society's most controversial conversations with both scientific rigour and deep compassion.

This episode is an invitation to look beyond labels, to think more critically about the words we use, and to discover how language can shape not only our understanding of the world, but our capacity to heal within it.

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Topics include:

• The meaning of psychedelic ("mind manifesting")
• Why MDMA was originally called empathy
• Consciousness and the human mind
• Language, perception and public policy
• Psychedelic research and mental health
• Science, evidence and curiosity
• Myth, symbolism and storytelling
• The power of words to shape society

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Continue the conversation:

Learn more about the work Professor David Nutt discusses in this episode:

Psychedelic Action Task Force: https://www.psychedelicaction.org/

Drug Science Uk: https://www.drugscience.org.uk/

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Thank you to our sponsor:

Nirvana Brewery, Alcohol free beer

https://nirvanabrewery.com

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See you next Wednesday 22nd July for our Substack live, where hosts Mabel & Ben unpack David's weight-bearing words and reflect on the ideas, stories and moments that stayed with them. 7pm BST.

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This episode discusses psychedelics from scientific, cultural and historical perspectives. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or guidance on psychedelic use.