The Intoxication Instinct.
Helen Phillips and Graham Lawton.
- New Scientist, 2004.
- SIRS Enduring Issues 2006. Article 61, Health, 1522-323X; .
Articles Contained in SIRS Enduring Issues 2006. Originally Published: The Intoxication Instinct, Nov. 13, 2004; pp. 32-41.
"Since prehistoric times, humans have been seeking out and using intoxicating substances. Most people who have ever lived have experienced a chemically induced altered state of consciousness, and the same is true of people alive today. That's not to say that everybody is constantly fighting the urge to get high, nor that intoxication is somehow a normal state of consciousness. But how many of us can claim never to have experienced an altered state, whether it be a caffeine kick to help us get going in the morning, a relaxing beer after work, a few puffs on a joint at a party or the euphoric high of ecstasy?" (NEW SCIENTIST) This article examines intoxication and the quest by humans to achieve it.
1522-323X;
Alcohol--History Altered states of consciousness Amphetamines Caffeine Dopamine Drinking of alcoholic beverages Drug abuse Drug abuse--History Drugs--Physiological effect Drugs--Side effects Hallucinogenic drugs Narcotics--Physiological effect Nicotine Pharmacology