Module Four: High Times in Ancient Times
Throughout the twists and turns of human history, there's been this undeniable allure to substances that alter our perception. Whether it's the opium poppy, with its seductive promise of euphoria, or the classy wine goblet, a gateway to uninhibited revelry, our ancestors were masters of the good times. But behind all the fun lies a tale as wild as a vine at a wild party, filled with intrigue and unexpected consequences.
Take those ancient Sumerians, for instance. They were the original party animals. Picture a dusty temple, priests chanting, and smack dab in the middle, a cauldron of opium stew. Those Mesopotamians weren't just brewing beer for kicks; they were cultivating the primo stuff, the opium poppy. Sure, it dulled the pain and made life a bit breezier, but it came with strings attached. Addiction wasn't just a personal problem; it was a full-blown epidemic. Imagine trying to run an empire when half your people are floating off to la-la land.
Then there's Ancient Greece, where the gods were as plentiful as the wine. Oh, the Greeks and their love affair with Vino! From fancy symposiums to religious rituals, they couldn't get enough. But who needs moderation? Dionysus, the god of wine and partying, would've given them a high-five until, of course, the morning after hit like a ton of amphoras. Alcoholism wasn't just a pastime; it was practically a national sport. You haven't truly lived until you've seen a philosopher take a tumble off his soapbox after one too many goblets of Dionysian joy.
Fast forward a few millennia, and we find ourselves grappling with the same age-old issues. We've developed sophisticated terms like 'policy' and 'regulation' to mask our collective intoxication. We debate about harm reduction and rehabilitation, while our ancestors, if they could, would be rolling in their graves, pondering where we veered off course. Spoiler alert: it's the same old story, just with a modern twist.
It's not all dark clouds and brooding. Delving into our shady past sheds light on the present. We can avoid repeating the same mistakes as our party-loving forebears. After all, it's not every day you stumble upon a history lesson about getting lit.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Take those ancient Sumerians, for instance. They were the original party animals. Picture a dusty temple, priests chanting, and smack dab in the middle, a cauldron of opium stew. Those Mesopotamians weren't just brewing beer for kicks; they were cultivating the primo stuff, the opium poppy. Sure, it dulled the pain and made life a bit breezier, but it came with strings attached. Addiction wasn't just a personal problem; it was a full-blown epidemic. Imagine trying to run an empire when half your people are floating off to la-la land.
Then there's Ancient Greece, where the gods were as plentiful as the wine. Oh, the Greeks and their love affair with Vino! From fancy symposiums to religious rituals, they couldn't get enough. But who needs moderation? Dionysus, the god of wine and partying, would've given them a high-five until, of course, the morning after hit like a ton of amphoras. Alcoholism wasn't just a pastime; it was practically a national sport. You haven't truly lived until you've seen a philosopher take a tumble off his soapbox after one too many goblets of Dionysian joy.
Fast forward a few millennia, and we find ourselves grappling with the same age-old issues. We've developed sophisticated terms like 'policy' and 'regulation' to mask our collective intoxication. We debate about harm reduction and rehabilitation, while our ancestors, if they could, would be rolling in their graves, pondering where we veered off course. Spoiler alert: it's the same old story, just with a modern twist.
It's not all dark clouds and brooding. Delving into our shady past sheds light on the present. We can avoid repeating the same mistakes as our party-loving forebears. After all, it's not every day you stumble upon a history lesson about getting lit.
THE RUNDOWN
- Substance use in pre-modern Western Civilization, such as opium in Mesopotamia and wine in Ancient Greece, was integral to cultural practices but also led to addiction and societal issues.
- The trade of substances like opium and spices shaped global trade routes, driving exploration and colonization efforts.
- Early medical traditions utilized psychoactive substances for therapeutic purposes, blurring the line between medicine and recreational use.
- Historical examples, like the Sumerian cultivation of opium and the Greek reliance on wine, demonstrate both positive medicinal benefits and negative societal consequences.
- Studying pre-modern substance use informs contemporary policy debates on drug regulation, addiction treatment, and harm reduction strategies.
- Understanding the historical roots of substance use provides insights into current attitudes and behaviors towards drugs, aiding efforts to address societal issues such as addiction and mental health.
QUESTIONS
- How did ancient people in places like Mesopotamia and Ancient Greece use drugs like opium and wine in their everyday lives and rituals? What did these substances mean to their cultures and how did they affect social gatherings and religious practices?
- Why is it important to study how people in the past used drugs? How can it help us make decisions about laws and treatments for addiction today?
- How can understanding how people in history dealt with drug use help us understand and solve problems like addiction and mental health today?
#4 Don't Focus on the 1%
Imagine a scenario where the accounts of our past, those ancient volumes of purported wisdom, have consistently originated from the so-called victors. But who exactly constitutes these victors? Primarily, they represent the elite 1%, the influential figures, those audacious individuals armed with quills and inkwells and formidable armies. We find ourselves navigating the convoluted passages of history akin to rodents traversing a maze conceived by Kafka under the influence of the intricate tapestry of human existence. And what revelation awaits? The ordinary people, the laborers, those devoid of armies but burdened with the unenviable task of confronting them are the unsung protagonists, the supporting actors in the epic saga of humanity.
Consider the Industrial Revolution. Indeed, steam engines, textile mills, and inventors adorned in top hats make appearances, yet who truly propels the gears and tightens the screws? It is not Sir Elegance with the monocle; instead, it is the average individuals, toiling away in factories, acquiring calluses rivaling those of a bare-handed rock climber. Let's rewind to the Civil Rights Movement on the topic of revolutions. Martin Luther King Jr. is a visionary, but let us not overlook the dreamers on the ground—those who confronted fire hoses and police dogs armed only with righteous anger and the audacity to defy oppression. It was not a solo performance; it resembled a punk rock ensemble of activism, eschewing conformity.
Why does all this bear significance in our era dominated by hashtags and viral memes? Because history transcends a mere chronicle of dates and deceased individuals of a particular ethnicity. It is the narrative of strife, the tale of the underprivileged who somehow resisted surrendering to oblivion. It encapsulates the account of the overlooked, the unheralded, and the exceedingly tenacious individuals who refused to be relegated to mere footnotes. Undoubtedly, delving into history beyond the privileged 1% may not secure you a lucratively compensated occupation, but it undeniably enhances your conversational allure at social gatherings. Envision dispensing insightful anecdotes about the genuine heroes of the past while indulging in your meticulously sourced latte. You would embody the epitome of a stylish time-traveling history enthusiast.
Here's to the uncelebrated heroes, the dissidents, and the agitators who sculpted the world while the 1% indulged in golf and monopolized the cigar market. Let us toast the ordinary individuals who, as it turns out, were rather extraordinary. Cheers to the foot soldiers of history, the authentic architects of transformation, and those who defiantly rebuffed the status quo. May their narratives endure, be recounted, and acquire meme status for generations.
RUNDOWN
STATE OF THE WORLD
Imagine a scenario where the accounts of our past, those ancient volumes of purported wisdom, have consistently originated from the so-called victors. But who exactly constitutes these victors? Primarily, they represent the elite 1%, the influential figures, those audacious individuals armed with quills and inkwells and formidable armies. We find ourselves navigating the convoluted passages of history akin to rodents traversing a maze conceived by Kafka under the influence of the intricate tapestry of human existence. And what revelation awaits? The ordinary people, the laborers, those devoid of armies but burdened with the unenviable task of confronting them are the unsung protagonists, the supporting actors in the epic saga of humanity.
Consider the Industrial Revolution. Indeed, steam engines, textile mills, and inventors adorned in top hats make appearances, yet who truly propels the gears and tightens the screws? It is not Sir Elegance with the monocle; instead, it is the average individuals, toiling away in factories, acquiring calluses rivaling those of a bare-handed rock climber. Let's rewind to the Civil Rights Movement on the topic of revolutions. Martin Luther King Jr. is a visionary, but let us not overlook the dreamers on the ground—those who confronted fire hoses and police dogs armed only with righteous anger and the audacity to defy oppression. It was not a solo performance; it resembled a punk rock ensemble of activism, eschewing conformity.
Why does all this bear significance in our era dominated by hashtags and viral memes? Because history transcends a mere chronicle of dates and deceased individuals of a particular ethnicity. It is the narrative of strife, the tale of the underprivileged who somehow resisted surrendering to oblivion. It encapsulates the account of the overlooked, the unheralded, and the exceedingly tenacious individuals who refused to be relegated to mere footnotes. Undoubtedly, delving into history beyond the privileged 1% may not secure you a lucratively compensated occupation, but it undeniably enhances your conversational allure at social gatherings. Envision dispensing insightful anecdotes about the genuine heroes of the past while indulging in your meticulously sourced latte. You would embody the epitome of a stylish time-traveling history enthusiast.
Here's to the uncelebrated heroes, the dissidents, and the agitators who sculpted the world while the 1% indulged in golf and monopolized the cigar market. Let us toast the ordinary individuals who, as it turns out, were rather extraordinary. Cheers to the foot soldiers of history, the authentic architects of transformation, and those who defiantly rebuffed the status quo. May their narratives endure, be recounted, and acquire meme status for generations.
RUNDOWN
- Comprehends shared human stories comprehensively.
- Reveals overlooked history through ordinary people's experiences.
- Vital for promoting inclusivity and challenging inequalities.
- Broadens historical perspective and acknowledges marginalized groups.
- Ordinary people's experiences provide insights into today's systems.
- Positive and negative outcomes: Empowers collective action but warns against perpetuating stereotypes.
STATE OF THE WORLD
World Map, 4,000 BCE
The year 4000 BCE barely registers as a blip, yet it marked the humble beginnings of civilization across the globe. From the bustling city-states of Mesopotamia, where the Sumerians debated between cuneiform and emojis, to the majestic pyramids rising along the Nile under the Pharaohs' rule and the efficient urban planning of Harappa and Mohenjo-Daro in the Indus Valley, humanity was laying down the groundwork for future societies. These civilizations faced numerous challenges, from environmental issues such as floods and droughts to social and political conflicts. Meanwhile, the Yellow River sustained early settlements in China while pottery masters of the Yangshao and Longshan cultures pondered chicken theft prevention strategies. Still finding its footing, Europe grappled with projects like Stonehenge, a puzzling monument to future generations. Across the ocean, the Olmecs left behind enigmatic stone heads in Mesoamerica. At the same time, the Norte Chico civilization in South America threw legendary parties in Caral, all showcasing humanity's knack for turning chaos into order despite our perpetual stumble through the darkness of an often illogical world.
HIGHLIGHTS
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We've got some fine classroom lectures coming your way, all courtesy of the RPTM podcast. These lectures will take you on a wild ride through history, exploring everything from ancient civilizations and epic battles to scientific breakthroughs and artistic revolutions. The podcast will guide you through each lecture with its no-nonsense, straight-talking style, using various sources to give you the lowdown on each topic. You won't find any fancy-pants jargon or convoluted theories here, just plain and straightforward explanations anyone can understand. So sit back and prepare to soak up some knowledge.
LECTURES
LECTURES
- UNDER CONSTRUCTION!
The Reading section—a realm where our aspirations of enlightenment often clash with the harsh realities of procrastination and the desperate reliance on Google. We soldier on through dense texts, promised 'broadening perspectives' but often wrestling with existential dread and academic pressure. With a healthy dose of sarcasm and a strong cup of coffee, I'll be your guide on this wild journey from dusty tomes to the murky depths of postmodernism. In the midst of all the pretentious prose, there's a glimmer of insight: we're all in this together, united in our struggle to survive without losing our sanity.
READING
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
READING
- Chapter 4. Pride in Family and City: Rome from Its Origins Through the Republic, 753-44 B.C.E.
This class utilizes the following textbook:
Sherman, Dennis, and Joyce Salisbury. The West in the World. 5th ed. McGraw Hill, 2013.
In the whirlwind of academia, where tweed jackets and discussions about the best coffee spot reign, Joyce Salisbury and Dennis Sherman stand out as the rebels of historical scholarship. Armed with Salisbury's Ph.D. in medieval history from Rutgers University and Sherman's academic journey from UC Berkeley to the University of Michigan, they challenge the conventional norms with their scholarly prowess and irreverent wit. Salisbury fearlessly delves into ancient violence with works like "The Blood of Martyrs" and uncovers forgotten tales of resilience in "The Encyclopedia of Women in the Ancient World." Meanwhile, Sherman, akin to an academic Indiana Jones, roams the globe contemplating French history in Parisian cafes and making history accessible with titles like "A Short History of Western Civilization." Together, they disrupt the ivory tower with their unapologetic approach and thirst for asking the tough questions.
As a dynamic duo, Salisbury and Sherman defy the stereotype of the stuffy historian. Their partnership merges Salisbury's pen, mightier than Excalibur itself, with Sherman's knack for weaving accessible narratives. They're not just scholars but cultural provocateurs challenging the status quo. So, here's to raising a glass (or a quill) to these academic renegades, who breathe life into the dusty corridors of historical scholarship with their relentless curiosity and scholarly swagger.
RUNDOWN
- The Republic of Rome grew in power from 509 B.C.E. to 44 B.C.E.
- Rome controlled much of the Mediterranean world by 44 B.C.E.
- The Republic's success was built on citizen farmer-soldiers, but wealthy slave owners and a large army later replaced them.
- Social bonds among citizens weakened, and power struggles became violent.
- Romans admired Greek beauty and individualism over their own serious heroes.
- Julius Caesar played a key role in Rome's shift from republic to empire.
- Historians debate whether Caesar was a visionary adapting to changing times or a power-hungry dictator.
- Caesar's assassination did not solve Rome's problems; more violence followed.
- Eventually, a leader emerged to establish a new enduring form of government.
Howard Zinn was a historian, writer, and political activist known for his critical analysis of American history. He is particularly well-known for his counter-narrative to traditional American history accounts and highlights marginalized groups' experiences and perspectives. Zinn's work is often associated with social history and is known for his Marxist and socialist views. Larry Schweikart is also a historian, but his work and perspective are often considered more conservative. Schweikart's work is often associated with military history, and he is known for his support of free-market economics and limited government. Overall, Zinn and Schweikart have different perspectives on various historical issues and events and may interpret historical events and phenomena differently. Occasionally, we will also look at Thaddeus Russell, a historian, author, and academic. Russell has written extensively on the history of social and cultural change, and his work focuses on how marginalized and oppressed groups have challenged and transformed mainstream culture. Russell is known for his unconventional and controversial ideas, and his work has been praised for its originality and provocative nature.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.
My classes utilize both Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Larry Schweikart's Patriot's History of the United States, mostly in excerpts posted to the modules.
Zinn, A People's History of the United States
"...At the end of the eighties, at least a third of African-American families fell below the official poverty level, and black unemployment seemed fixed at two and a half times that of whites, with young blacks out of work at the rate of 30 to 40 percent. The life expectancy of blacks remained at least ten years lower than that of whites. In Detroit, Washington, and Baltimore, the mortality rate for black babies was higher than in Jamaica or Costa Rica.
Along with poverty came broken homes, family violence, street crime, drugs. In Washington, D.C., with a concentrated population of black poor within walking distance of the marbled buildings of the national government, 42 percent of young black men between the ages of eighteen and thirty-five were either in jail, or out on probation or parole. The crime rate among blacks, instead of being seen as a crying demand for the elimination of poverty, was used by politicians to call for the building of more prisons..."
"...The fact of that discontent is clear. The surveys since the early seventies show 70 to 80 percent of Americans distrustful of government, business, the military. This means the distrust goes beyond blacks, the poor, the radicals. It has spread among skilled workers, white-collar workers, professionals; for the first time in the nation's history, perhaps, both the lower classes and the middle classes, the prisoners and the guards, were disillusioned with the system.
There are other signs: the high rate of alcoholism, the high rate of divorce (from one of three marriages ending in divorce, the figure was climbing to one of two), of drug use and abuse, of nervous breakdowns and mental illness. Millions of people have been looking desperately for solutions to their sense of impotency, their loneliness, their frustration, their estrangement from other people, from the world, from their work, from themselves. They have been adopting new religions, joining self-help groups of all kinds. It is as if a whole nation were going through a critical point in its middle age, a life crisis of self-doubt, self-examination. All this, at a time when the middle class is increasingly insecure economically. The system, in its irrationality, has been driven by profit to build steel skyscrapers for insurance companies while the cities decay, to spend billions for weapons of destruction and virtually nothing for children's playgrounds, to give huge incomes to men who make dangerous or useless things, and very little to artists, musicians, writers, actors. Capitalism has always been a failure for the lower classes. It is now beginning to fail for the middle classes..."
"...At the end of the eighties, at least a third of African-American families fell below the official poverty level, and black unemployment seemed fixed at two and a half times that of whites, with young blacks out of work at the rate of 30 to 40 percent. The life expectancy of blacks remained at least ten years lower than that of whites. In Detroit, Washington, and Baltimore, the mortality rate for black babies was higher than in Jamaica or Costa Rica.
Along with poverty came broken homes, family violence, street crime, drugs. In Washington, D.C., with a concentrated population of black poor within walking distance of the marbled buildings of the national government, 42 percent of young black men between the ages of eighteen and thirty-five were either in jail, or out on probation or parole. The crime rate among blacks, instead of being seen as a crying demand for the elimination of poverty, was used by politicians to call for the building of more prisons..."
"...The fact of that discontent is clear. The surveys since the early seventies show 70 to 80 percent of Americans distrustful of government, business, the military. This means the distrust goes beyond blacks, the poor, the radicals. It has spread among skilled workers, white-collar workers, professionals; for the first time in the nation's history, perhaps, both the lower classes and the middle classes, the prisoners and the guards, were disillusioned with the system.
There are other signs: the high rate of alcoholism, the high rate of divorce (from one of three marriages ending in divorce, the figure was climbing to one of two), of drug use and abuse, of nervous breakdowns and mental illness. Millions of people have been looking desperately for solutions to their sense of impotency, their loneliness, their frustration, their estrangement from other people, from the world, from their work, from themselves. They have been adopting new religions, joining self-help groups of all kinds. It is as if a whole nation were going through a critical point in its middle age, a life crisis of self-doubt, self-examination. All this, at a time when the middle class is increasingly insecure economically. The system, in its irrationality, has been driven by profit to build steel skyscrapers for insurance companies while the cities decay, to spend billions for weapons of destruction and virtually nothing for children's playgrounds, to give huge incomes to men who make dangerous or useless things, and very little to artists, musicians, writers, actors. Capitalism has always been a failure for the lower classes. It is now beginning to fail for the middle classes..."
Larry Schweikart, A Patriot's History of the United States
... Enhancing the freedom from responsibility and the associated notion that normal activities such as holding jobs and raising families were somehow meaningless, the new drug culture spread through the underculture like wildfire. Timothy Leary’s famous call to tune in, turn on, and drop out reached innocent ears like a siren song, and many youth, already convinced their parents had lied to them about rock and roll, sex, and Vietnam, listened attentively. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) was the subject of extensive tests by the CIA in the 1950s. One CIA researcher recalled the lab staff using it themselves, saying, 'There was an extensive amount of self-experimentation…[because] we felt that a firsthand knowledge of the subjective effects of these drugs [was] important.' LSD spread throughout the subculture and by the 1960s, dropping acid was equated with a religious experience by Beat poet Allen Ginsburg.
Increasingly, intellectuals in the 1960s advocated chemical use purely for pleasure and mind expansion. And not just LSD, but mescaline, heroin, amphetamines, Ditran, and other mysterious substances, all, of course, undergirded by the all-purpose and ubiquitous marijuana. Writer Ken Kesey credited his LSD trip for his insight in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest; leaders of the Berkeley Free Speech movement saw drugs as a natural element in their attack on conformity; and indeed drug use was, in their view, 'an important political catalyst…[that enabled] questioning of the official mythology of the governing class.' Or, as a veteran of the Free Speech movement bragged, 'When a young person took his first puff of psychoactive smoke,…[he] became a youth criminal against the State.' It was all so much empty rhetoric, but when draped in the language of academia, it took on a certain respectability..."
... Enhancing the freedom from responsibility and the associated notion that normal activities such as holding jobs and raising families were somehow meaningless, the new drug culture spread through the underculture like wildfire. Timothy Leary’s famous call to tune in, turn on, and drop out reached innocent ears like a siren song, and many youth, already convinced their parents had lied to them about rock and roll, sex, and Vietnam, listened attentively. LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) was the subject of extensive tests by the CIA in the 1950s. One CIA researcher recalled the lab staff using it themselves, saying, 'There was an extensive amount of self-experimentation…[because] we felt that a firsthand knowledge of the subjective effects of these drugs [was] important.' LSD spread throughout the subculture and by the 1960s, dropping acid was equated with a religious experience by Beat poet Allen Ginsburg.
Increasingly, intellectuals in the 1960s advocated chemical use purely for pleasure and mind expansion. And not just LSD, but mescaline, heroin, amphetamines, Ditran, and other mysterious substances, all, of course, undergirded by the all-purpose and ubiquitous marijuana. Writer Ken Kesey credited his LSD trip for his insight in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest; leaders of the Berkeley Free Speech movement saw drugs as a natural element in their attack on conformity; and indeed drug use was, in their view, 'an important political catalyst…[that enabled] questioning of the official mythology of the governing class.' Or, as a veteran of the Free Speech movement bragged, 'When a young person took his first puff of psychoactive smoke,…[he] became a youth criminal against the State.' It was all so much empty rhetoric, but when draped in the language of academia, it took on a certain respectability..."
Thaddeus Russell, A Renegade History of the United States
"..The other unintended and ironic consequence of [World War II] had to do with production for the military. In early 1942, Japan cut off supplies to the U.S. of coarse fibers from Asia, which were vital in the making of several war materials. In response to this, the federal government encouraged American farmers to grow hemp, also known as marijuana, which could be used as a coarse fiber in defense production. Marijuana had been effectively outlawed in 1937, but during the war all American farmers were required to attend showings of the USDA film Hemp for Victory, sign that they had seen the film, and read a hemp cultivation booklet. Hemp harvesting machinery was made available at low or no cost. Farmers who agreed to grow hemp were waived from serving in the military, along with their sons. During the war, 350,000 acres of marijuana were cultivated for the war effort, and the seeds for the pot culture of postwar America were literally planted..."
"..The other unintended and ironic consequence of [World War II] had to do with production for the military. In early 1942, Japan cut off supplies to the U.S. of coarse fibers from Asia, which were vital in the making of several war materials. In response to this, the federal government encouraged American farmers to grow hemp, also known as marijuana, which could be used as a coarse fiber in defense production. Marijuana had been effectively outlawed in 1937, but during the war all American farmers were required to attend showings of the USDA film Hemp for Victory, sign that they had seen the film, and read a hemp cultivation booklet. Hemp harvesting machinery was made available at low or no cost. Farmers who agreed to grow hemp were waived from serving in the military, along with their sons. During the war, 350,000 acres of marijuana were cultivated for the war effort, and the seeds for the pot culture of postwar America were literally planted..."
In the sprawling drama of human life, substance abuse and recreational drug use take center stage as the ultimate drama queens, waltzing through the complexities of society, culture, and governance. It's a saga as old as time, starring characters from the downtrodden seeking solace to the rebels shaking their fists at the status quo. Let's dive into this shadowy realm where history unfolds like a plot twist, unveiling the quirks of our collective journey.
Imagine this: a gritty cityscape where the neon glow of a liquor store sign flickers like a beacon of gloom. Here, in the concrete jungle, Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" reads like a bleak memoir, chronicling the struggle of the underprivileged against a backdrop of inequality. In this story, substance abuse isn't just a choice but a symptom of more profound injustices, a coping mechanism for those crushed under the weight of poverty and hopelessness.
But hold on, the plot thickens. Enter Larry Schweikart's "A Patriot's History of the United States," painting a psychedelic portrait of the 1960s, where rebellion comes in the form of tie-dye shirts and LSD trips. Here, recreational drug use becomes the anthem of the counterculture, a rebellious salute to the powers that be. It's a tale of Woodstock dreams and Timothy Leary's cosmic journeys, where every hit of acid is a protest in a pill.
And what about the puppeteers pulling the strings? Like a clumsy juggler, government policies toss prohibition and promotion into a chaotic routine. Schweikart reminds us of World War II's curious contribution to cannabis culture, where hemp fields bloomed like forbidden gardens, nurturing a generation of pot aficionados. It's a reminder that even the best-laid plans can go up in smoke, leaving us scratching our heads in a cloud of irony.
So, what's the moral of this topsy-turvy tale? It could be that history is a quilt stitched with the threads of human folly, where every decision leaves a mark on the tapestry of society. From the back alleys of poverty to the penthouses of privilege, substance abuse, and recreational drug use transcend boundaries, highlighting the universal truth of human fragility.
Ultimately, as we sift through the rubble of our past, we're faced with a sobering truth: the journey to enlightenment is paved with brilliance and blunders.
THE RUNDOWN
QUESTIONS
Imagine this: a gritty cityscape where the neon glow of a liquor store sign flickers like a beacon of gloom. Here, in the concrete jungle, Howard Zinn's "A People's History of the United States" reads like a bleak memoir, chronicling the struggle of the underprivileged against a backdrop of inequality. In this story, substance abuse isn't just a choice but a symptom of more profound injustices, a coping mechanism for those crushed under the weight of poverty and hopelessness.
But hold on, the plot thickens. Enter Larry Schweikart's "A Patriot's History of the United States," painting a psychedelic portrait of the 1960s, where rebellion comes in the form of tie-dye shirts and LSD trips. Here, recreational drug use becomes the anthem of the counterculture, a rebellious salute to the powers that be. It's a tale of Woodstock dreams and Timothy Leary's cosmic journeys, where every hit of acid is a protest in a pill.
And what about the puppeteers pulling the strings? Like a clumsy juggler, government policies toss prohibition and promotion into a chaotic routine. Schweikart reminds us of World War II's curious contribution to cannabis culture, where hemp fields bloomed like forbidden gardens, nurturing a generation of pot aficionados. It's a reminder that even the best-laid plans can go up in smoke, leaving us scratching our heads in a cloud of irony.
So, what's the moral of this topsy-turvy tale? It could be that history is a quilt stitched with the threads of human folly, where every decision leaves a mark on the tapestry of society. From the back alleys of poverty to the penthouses of privilege, substance abuse, and recreational drug use transcend boundaries, highlighting the universal truth of human fragility.
Ultimately, as we sift through the rubble of our past, we're faced with a sobering truth: the journey to enlightenment is paved with brilliance and blunders.
THE RUNDOWN
- Substance abuse and recreational drug use have deep roots in Western Civilization history, reflecting societal inequalities and cultural shifts.
- Howard Zinn's "A People's History" highlights how poverty and systemic injustice contribute to drug abuse, while Larry Schweikart's "A Patriot's History" examines the countercultural movement of the 1960s.
- Drug culture often emerges as a form of rebellion against societal norms and authority figures, influenced by disillusionment with traditional values.
- Governmental policies, such as promoting hemp cultivation during World War II, can inadvertently fuel the proliferation of drug use despite prohibition.
- Studying this subject offers insights into the complexities of human behavior, societal dynamics, and the consequences of different approaches to drug policy.
- Historical examples illustrate both the positives, such as resistance to oppression, and the negatives, like addiction and inequality, associated with substance abuse and recreational drug use.
QUESTIONS
- Considering the insights gained from studying the history of substance abuse and recreational drug use, what implications does this have for contemporary drug policy? How can policymakers learn from past mistakes and successes to develop more effective approaches to addressing drug-related issues?
- How do societal attitudes towards drugs and drug users influence public policy and law enforcement practices? Discuss the role of stigma, moral judgments, and media portrayals in shaping perceptions of drug use and shaping policy responses.
- Analyze the intersectionality of substance abuse and recreational drug use with other social issues, such as race, class, gender, and sexuality. How do these intersecting factors contribute to disparities in drug-related outcomes and access to treatment?
Ancient Egyptian tomb fresco of a woman with a blue lotus
Prepare to be transported into the captivating realm of historical films and videos. Brace yourselves for a mind-bending odyssey through time as we embark on a cinematic expedition. Within these flickering frames, the past morphs into a vivid tapestry of triumphs, tragedies, and transformative moments that have shaped the very fabric of our existence. We shall immerse ourselves in a whirlwind of visual narratives, dissecting the nuances of artistic interpretations, examining the storytelling techniques, and voraciously devouring historical accuracy with the ferocity of a time-traveling historian. So strap in, hold tight, and prepare to have your perception of history forever shattered by the mesmerizing lens of the camera.
THE RUNDOWN
Controlled substances have twirled through time, leaving a haze of intrigue and occasional enlightenment. From ancient shamanic rituals in rainforest huts to opulent opium dens of Mesopotamia and China, the pursuit of altered states has intertwined with both creativity and destruction. Yet, for every moment of artistic brilliance, there's a shadow of addiction and societal decay echoing through the ages. Today, in the neon-lit alleys of modern cities, the specter of substance abuse persists, casting its shadow over the disenfranchised. Still, amidst the chaos, there's a glimmer of resilience and redemption as some rise above the darkness, reminding us of the enduring human spirit.
Controlled substances have twirled through time, leaving a haze of intrigue and occasional enlightenment. From ancient shamanic rituals in rainforest huts to opulent opium dens of Mesopotamia and China, the pursuit of altered states has intertwined with both creativity and destruction. Yet, for every moment of artistic brilliance, there's a shadow of addiction and societal decay echoing through the ages. Today, in the neon-lit alleys of modern cities, the specter of substance abuse persists, casting its shadow over the disenfranchised. Still, amidst the chaos, there's a glimmer of resilience and redemption as some rise above the darkness, reminding us of the enduring human spirit.
Welcome to the mind-bending Key Terms extravaganza of our history class learning module. Brace yourselves; we will unravel the cryptic codes, secret handshakes, and linguistic labyrinths that make up the twisted tapestry of historical knowledge. These key terms are the Rosetta Stones of our academic journey, the skeleton keys to unlocking the enigmatic doors of comprehension. They're like historical Swiss Army knives, equipped with blades of definition and corkscrews of contextual examples, ready to pierce through the fog of confusion and liberate your intellectual curiosity. By harnessing the power of these mighty key terms, you'll possess the superhuman ability to traverse the treacherous terrains of primary sources, surf the tumultuous waves of academic texts, and engage in epic battles of historical debate. The past awaits, and the key terms are keys to unlocking its dazzling secrets.
KEY TERMS
KEY TERMS
- 4000 BCE - Prehistoric Use of Ephedra
- 4000 BCE - Indigenous European Use of Fly Agaric
- 4000 BCE - Sumerian Use of Beer
- 3400 BCE - Opium Cultivation in Sumer
- 3000 BCE - Mesopotamian Drug Use
- 3000 BCE - Incense Use in Religious Ceremonies
- 3000 BCE - Scythians and Thracians Use of Cannabis
- 3000 BCE - Ancient Egyptian Use of Blue Lotus
- 3000 BCE - Egyptian Use of Beer
- 1000 BCE - Ancient Greek Wine Culture
- 1000 BCE - Use of Mandrake in Greece and Rome.
- 1000 BCE - Ancient Persian Opium Use
- 700 BCE - Ancient Greek Use of Kykeon
- 400 BCE - Hellenistic Period Drug Use
- 100 BCE - Roman Substance Abuse
- 100 BCE - Roman Dionysian Celebrations
- 775 CE - Norse Use of Alcohol
- 900 CE - Mediterranean Use of Hashish
- 1201 CE - Arabian Coffee Culture
- 401 CE - Medieval Use of Alcohol
DISCLAIMER: Welcome scholars to the wild and wacky world of history class. This isn't your granddaddy's boring ol' lecture, baby. We will take a trip through time, which will be one wild ride. I know some of you are in a brick-and-mortar setting, while others are in the vast digital wasteland. But fear not; we're all in this together. Online students might miss out on some in-person interaction, but you can still join in on the fun. This little shindig aims to get you all engaged with the course material and understand how past societies have shaped the world we know today. We'll talk about revolutions, wars, and other crazy stuff. So get ready, kids, because it's going to be one heck of a trip. And for all, you online students out there, don't be shy. Please share your thoughts and ideas with the rest of us. The Professor will do his best to give everyone an equal opportunity to learn, so don't hold back. So, let's do this thing!
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective: Select the correct answer for each question about the history of religion in Western civilization before 1500 CE and click 'Submit' to check your answer.
Activity #1: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Objective: Select the correct answer for each question about the history of religion in Western civilization before 1500 CE and click 'Submit' to check your answer.
Activity #2: UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Ladies and gentlemen, gather 'round for the pièce de résistance of this classroom module - the summary section. As we embark on this tantalizing journey, we'll savor the exquisite flavors of knowledge, highlighting the fundamental ingredients and spices that have seasoned our minds throughout these captivating lessons. Prepare to indulge in a savory recap that will leave your intellectual taste buds tingling, serving as a passport to further enlightenment.
In the vast tapestry of human antics, there's a vibrant and shadowy strand, as widespread as it is discreet. It's the thread of indulgence, meandering through the epochs, leaving behind a trail of mishaps, hushed tales, and, oddly enough, a sprinkle of cultural pizzazz.
Consider ancient Mesopotamia, where, alongside inventing the wheel and cities, the Sumerians were growing opium-like, which was going out of fashion. Picture it: folks in sandals and minimal attire, getting pleasantly fuzzy while etching the first drafts of poetry. Opium was their universal remedy, from stubbed toes to existential crises. But alas! Addiction lurked behind every blissful haze, turning paradise into a detox dungeon.
Then there's ancient Greece, where they didn't just ponder the mysteries of life; they drowned them in wine. Symposiums weren't just intellectual gatherings; they were boozy affairs where Socrates probably stumbled as much as he philosophized about virtue. Wine flowed freely, unleashing minds and spirits until the morning after when the hangover gods exacted their toll.
They were skipping ahead to the Age of Exploration when Europeans sought to spice up their lives. They sailed off in search of exotic flavors and mind-altering substances, inadvertently birthing the global drug exchange. Their pursuit of riches and glory was fueled by a craving for opium, spices, and anything to break the monotony. Little did they know, they were sowing seeds for centuries of addiction, exploitation, and cultural misappropriation masquerading as adventure.
But it's not all bleak. Amidst the historical fog, there were moments of clarity, like when ancient healers prescribed cannabis for various disorders. They might have been fuzzy on the whole "first, not harm" thing, but they were onto something. The line between medicine and merrymaking was as blurred as their vision after a night's revelry, but who's keeping score?
And let's not overlook good ol' Uncle Sam, who, in his infinite wisdom, championed hemp as a cure-all. Thus began the cannabis craze that swept the nation. It's as if the government said, "Here, have some rope and a side of reefer madness," we all went along with it because, well, why not?
So here we are, grappling with it all in the present day—addiction on one side, public health crises on the other, and many unanswered queries. But if we step back and view the panorama, we'll realize that substance use isn't merely a problem; it's a mirror reflecting our species' quirks. We are flawed, chaotic, and endlessly intriguing.
or, in other words:
Consider ancient Mesopotamia, where, alongside inventing the wheel and cities, the Sumerians were growing opium-like, which was going out of fashion. Picture it: folks in sandals and minimal attire, getting pleasantly fuzzy while etching the first drafts of poetry. Opium was their universal remedy, from stubbed toes to existential crises. But alas! Addiction lurked behind every blissful haze, turning paradise into a detox dungeon.
Then there's ancient Greece, where they didn't just ponder the mysteries of life; they drowned them in wine. Symposiums weren't just intellectual gatherings; they were boozy affairs where Socrates probably stumbled as much as he philosophized about virtue. Wine flowed freely, unleashing minds and spirits until the morning after when the hangover gods exacted their toll.
They were skipping ahead to the Age of Exploration when Europeans sought to spice up their lives. They sailed off in search of exotic flavors and mind-altering substances, inadvertently birthing the global drug exchange. Their pursuit of riches and glory was fueled by a craving for opium, spices, and anything to break the monotony. Little did they know, they were sowing seeds for centuries of addiction, exploitation, and cultural misappropriation masquerading as adventure.
But it's not all bleak. Amidst the historical fog, there were moments of clarity, like when ancient healers prescribed cannabis for various disorders. They might have been fuzzy on the whole "first, not harm" thing, but they were onto something. The line between medicine and merrymaking was as blurred as their vision after a night's revelry, but who's keeping score?
And let's not overlook good ol' Uncle Sam, who, in his infinite wisdom, championed hemp as a cure-all. Thus began the cannabis craze that swept the nation. It's as if the government said, "Here, have some rope and a side of reefer madness," we all went along with it because, well, why not?
So here we are, grappling with it all in the present day—addiction on one side, public health crises on the other, and many unanswered queries. But if we step back and view the panorama, we'll realize that substance use isn't merely a problem; it's a mirror reflecting our species' quirks. We are flawed, chaotic, and endlessly intriguing.
or, in other words:
- Substance abuse and recreational drug use have deep roots in pre-modern Western Civilization, shaping cultural practices and societal norms.
- Early examples such as Sumerian opium cultivation and Greek wine consumption highlight both the positive medicinal benefits and negative consequences of substance use.
- Trade in substances like opium and spices influenced global trade routes, driving exploration and colonization.
- Historical medical traditions blurred the line between medicine and recreational use, with substances like opium and cannabis being prescribed for therapeutic purposes.
- Governmental policies, such as promoting hemp cultivation during World War II, inadvertently fueled drug proliferation despite prohibition.
- Studying this history informs contemporary debates on drug regulation, addiction treatment, and harm reduction, offering insights into societal dynamics and the consequences of different approaches to drug policy.
ASSIGNMENTS
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #05
- Forum Discussion #5
Remember all assignments, tests and quizzes must be submitted official via BLACKBOARD
Forum Discussion #05
Nutty History is a vibrant YouTube channel dedicated to uncovering the wacky, crazy, and weird facets of history, promising an entertaining journey through the unexpected and eccentric narratives of the past to engage and educate audiences of all ages. Watch the following:
Please answer the following question:
Considering the role of psychoactive substances in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia, do you think these substances were primarily used for medicinal purposes or for recreational activities? Support your argument with evidence from the video and other historical sources we've discussed in class.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
Within our collective memory, a tale of human brilliance and folly unfolds, intertwined with mind-altering plants and the enigmas of ancient civilizations. Imagine our early ancestors stumbling upon intriguing flora, whispering secrets of euphoria and transcendence, thus commencing humanity's enduring dance with altered states. Throughout history, nomadic tribes like the Yamnaya disseminated the use of cannabis, while opium's seductive allure migrated from ancient fields to Victorian dens. Amidst this ancient fascination, the blue lotus flourished as a symbol of serenity and enlightenment. As we ponder over these ancient narratives, we are reminded of humanity's perpetual search for meaning in life's labyrinth, where each step towards enlightenment carries the weight of unforeseen consequences. Yet, in the depths of our minds, truth often emerges, illuminating life's absurdities with stark clarity.
Considering the role of psychoactive substances in ancient civilizations like Egypt and Mesopotamia, do you think these substances were primarily used for medicinal purposes or for recreational activities? Support your argument with evidence from the video and other historical sources we've discussed in class.
Need help? Remember the Discussion Board Rubric.
THE RUNDOWN
Within our collective memory, a tale of human brilliance and folly unfolds, intertwined with mind-altering plants and the enigmas of ancient civilizations. Imagine our early ancestors stumbling upon intriguing flora, whispering secrets of euphoria and transcendence, thus commencing humanity's enduring dance with altered states. Throughout history, nomadic tribes like the Yamnaya disseminated the use of cannabis, while opium's seductive allure migrated from ancient fields to Victorian dens. Amidst this ancient fascination, the blue lotus flourished as a symbol of serenity and enlightenment. As we ponder over these ancient narratives, we are reminded of humanity's perpetual search for meaning in life's labyrinth, where each step towards enlightenment carries the weight of unforeseen consequences. Yet, in the depths of our minds, truth often emerges, illuminating life's absurdities with stark clarity.
Hey, welcome to the work cited section! Here's where you'll find all the heavy hitters that inspired the content you've just consumed. Some might think citations are as dull as unbuttered toast, but nothing gets my intellectual juices flowing like a good reference list. Don't get me wrong, just because we've cited a source; doesn't mean we're always going to see eye-to-eye. But that's the beauty of it - it's up to you to chew on the material and come to conclusions. Listen, we've gone to great lengths to ensure these citations are accurate, but let's face it, we're all human. So, give us a holler if you notice any mistakes or suggest more sources. We're always looking to up our game. Ultimately, it's all about pursuing knowledge and truth.
Work Cited:
Work Cited:
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