The Dionysian Naturalist

TRIPPING WITH THE GODS: ON ENTHEOGENIC SPIRITUALITY Wayne Martin Mellinger, Ph.D. Originally published on the blog  Naturalistic Paganism in 2020. (https://naturalisticpaganism.org/2020/05/28/tripping-with-the-gods-on-entheogenic-spirituality-part-1-of-5-by-wayne-martin-mellinger-ph-d-the-dionysian-naturalist/) ABSTRACT This paper offers a comprehensive examination of entheogenic spirituality—religious or spiritual practices involving psychoactive substances—through the lens of Religious Naturalism and Dionysian Naturalism. Drawing on critical social theory, anthropology, ethnobotany, and religious studies, Mellinger traces the use of entheogens from archaic forager societies, where controlled use was embedded in shamanic wisdom traditions, through agricultural civilizations and into the suppression of these practices during what he terms the “Pharmacratic Inquisition.” He argues that the criminalization and stigmatization of entheogens are rooted in patriarc...

NOV 19 Wayne Martin Mellinger - A Brief Bio Wayne Martin Mellinger, Ph.D. is a social justice educator, activist and writer, living in Santa Barbara, CA. He advocates for our neighbors on the streets, for those with mental health challenges and for all who are denied equal access to basic needs or are treated without dignity and respect. He has worked as an Outreach worker / Case Manager / Counselor for WillBridge of Santa Barbara, New Beginnings Counseling Center, The Safe Parking Program, Transition House and Casa Esperanza. His passion is helping chronically homeless and dually diagnosed individuals transition into permanent housing and self-sufficiency. He has taught sociology, social psychology and anti-oppression classes at Antioch University Santa Barbara, Ventura College, the Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, and Berkeley campuses of the University of California and the Fielding Graduate University, He received his M.A and Ph.D. in Sociology from UC-Santa Barbara. He...