Cultural Encyclopedia of LSD

Albert Hofman first synthesized LSD on November 16, 1938. When he accidentally absorbed a small quantity through his fingertips in 1943, he began a wave of experimentation that would reach its cultural heights in the academic and political mischief of Timothy Leary, the "acid tests" of the Merry Pranksters, and the musical experimentation of the late-1960s psychedelic era. In its 400 entries, this volume documents the influence of LSD on myriad aspects of culture, from psychiatry, religion, philosophy, arts, entertainment and sports, to commerce, science, politics and espionage. Coverage concentrates on the peak period of 1965 to 1969, but also includes LSD's early years and its later influence.