Rise of the Psychedelic Aristocracy

From our friends at The Chronicles of Kykeon

In the past decade, the Global North has witnessed a remarkable transformation in attitudes toward psychedelic substances. Once relegated to the countercultural fringes and dismissed as relics of the 1960s, psychedelics are experiencing a renaissance, prompting new conversations in medicine, science, spirituality, and popular culture. Once found only in the underground, the psychedelic movement has risen in visibility and is bringing all the typical symptoms of an emerging industry with the arrival of social influencers, entrepreneurs, and self-declared shamans. Amidst this shift, a novel social phenomenon has emerged: the rise of the “psychedelic aristocracy”. This is a burgeoning class of influential individuals and groups who shape, benefit from, and guide the evolving landscape of psychedelic exploration and enterprise.

When I refer to the “psychedelic aristocracy” I’m speaking of a new class of individuals and organizations that occupy privileged positions within the evolving psychedelic ecosystem. Unlike the aristocracies of old, which were defined by birthright, this group draws its influence from a combination of wealth, expertise, social capital, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural cachet. Its members include:

· Venture Capitalists and Entrepreneurs: Investors and founders who fund and build psychedelic startups, clinics, and biopharmaceutical companies.

· Academic Researchers and Medical Professionals: Scientists, clinicians, and therapists at the forefront of psychedelic research and therapy.

· Celebrity Advocates and Influencers: Public figures who use their platforms to promote psychedelic awareness and destigmatization.

· Spiritual Leaders and Facilitators: Guides and shamans who lead retreats, ceremonies, or integration sessions, often commanding high fees for their services.

· Policy Makers and Activists: Those with political connections to influence legislation.

This network forms a new cultural and economic elite with the power to shape the direction of the psychedelic renaissance.

The rise of the psychedelic aristocracy is not without controversy. It can be argued that it risks replicating the inequities and power imbalances seen in other areas of health care and wellness. Indigenous communities that have stewarded psychedelic traditions for centuries are often excluded from the profits and decision-making processes of the modern industry. There are concerns about cultural appropriation, intellectual property disputes, and the potential for “elitism” to overshadow the original psychedelic ideals of communal healing and egalitarian access.

In a better light, the psychedelic aristocracy can serve as a bridge between underground cultures and mainstream acceptance. By leveraging their resources and influence, members of this group can drive research, destigmatize use, and advocate for sensible policy changes. The challenge lies in ensuring that these benefits are shared broadly and that the voices of marginalized or Indigenous groups are included and respected.

The rise of the psychedelic aristocracy is a defining feature of the current renaissance. As psychedelics move from the underground to the mainstream, a new cultural and economic elite has emerged, one with the power to influence research, policy, and public perception. Their ascent brings both opportunities and challenges, highlighting the need for ongoing dialogue about equity, access, and the responsible stewardship of these powerful life changing substances. Membership in this group bring responsibility, and I’m hoping the aristocracy will use their power and influence to promote the common good. After all, isn’t that the message that psychedelics can bring? The message that we are all connected, everything is alive, and kindness begats kindness.

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published by our friends at the Chronicles of Kykeon over on Substack - be sure to support and subscribe!