Subject: Re: Esalen Response
It’s clear that a significant number of people in our community have responded negatively to the recent discussion about the Esalen event culture. This raises some important questions for us to consider:
1) Was the use of mind-altering substances part of the experience? This question must be addressed if we hope to take any of the testimonies seriously.
2) Coulthart has mentioned having clear UAP footage; this evidence needs to be made public if we are to regard these accounts with credibility.
3) If credible evidence emerges, would you be open to the idea that the use of psychedelics or “new age” thinking could have influenced these experiences? What type of evidence would convince you?
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
Edit: For transparency, Coulthart asserts in the clip below (30:48) that he did not use drugs or alcohol during the event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3dFHkgRY9g0&t=1675s
Edit 2: Here’s a link to more photos for additional context: https://www.instagram.com/zachmbell/p/DBrOb-aypke/?img_index=19
Re: Esalen reaction
These questions certainly create a valuable opportunity for critical discussion. Here are my thoughts on each point:
1) Mind Altering Drug Use: It’s crucial to consider the role of set and setting in experiences like those at Esalen. While drug use can undoubtedly influence perceptions and experiences, it shouldn’t entirely discredit accounts of what people witnessed. Personal experiences can still hold value even if altered states of consciousness are involved. However, understanding the context is essential for evaluating the overall picture.
2) Video Evidence Release: I wholeheartedly agree that releasing the claimed UAP footage is necessary for accountability and credibility. Clear evidence can ground fantastical accounts in reality, fostering a deeper understanding of what occurred. It would also help remove the ambiguity surrounding individual narratives.
3) Accepting Psychedelic Influence: Accepting that psychedelics or alternative ways of thinking might influence perceptions isn’t inherently negative. It requires a nuanced understanding of human consciousness and experience. For me, solid evidence would be data from various credible sources confirming shared experiences or phenomena, alongside extensive research that supports claims of altered perceptions.
Regarding Coulthart’s assertion of non-drug use, it’s important to weigh that statement among other accounts. The complex relationship between experience, perception, and substance use means that we should remain open yet discerning. Thanks for sparking this conversation!