Humanity and our planet face unprecedented existential challenges, yet innovation is stalling when it’s needed most.
Recent findings published in Nature reveal a concerning slowdown in scientific innovation, evidenced by a decrease in both disruptive patents filed and papers published. This study underscores the need for fresh, innovative approaches to reignite breakthrough thinking.
At MINDS, we understand the high stakes of this global challenge and are dedicated to accelerating the pace of discovery. By pioneering a re-emergence of research focused on creativity and problem solving, we aim to transform this period of stagnation into an era of unprecedented scientific advancement, supporting a bright and brilliant future.
That’s why we’re thrilled to announce that we’ve now funded our first study: Mind FLUX.
The study will take place at the Charmaine & Gordon McGill Center for Psychedelic Research & Therapy (MCRPT) at Dell Medical School at The University of Texas at Austin and was made possible by a generous donation from Brigham Buhler at Ways2Well, an Austin-based integrative health company. MCPRT researchers will undertake a three-year investigation of the potential of psilocybin, the active component in “magic mushrooms,” to enhance cognitive function, memory, and creative ability.
The principal investigators in the study, Greg Fonzo, Ph.D. and Manoj Doss, Ph.D. will be analyzing psilocybin’s impact on creative problem-solving abilities through a model of “processing fluency,” given the acronym FLUX by Doss.
Think of it like this: Processing fluency (FLUX) is the ease with which your brain processes information. When things flow smoothly, you’re more likely to connect seemingly unrelated ideas and have those “aha!” moments of insight. This could help people make connections between seemingly disparate concepts and find novel solutions to problems.
Could psilocybin be the key to unlocking FLUX flow states? That’s what the team at MCPRT is trying to find out.
The study will be in three parts:
Survey: They’ll survey technical experts who have used psychedelics to understand their experiences and insights gained during problem-solving tasks.
Laboratory studies: Using functional MRI scans and cognitive tasks, They’ll study how a moderate dose of psilocybin affects processing fluency and memory formation in a group of human subjects.
Real-world problem solving: Based on our findings, they plan to design a study involving technical professionals to see if psychedelics can actually improve their real-world problem-solving abilities.
This study represents a crucial step in validating the role of psychedelics in enhancing cognitive and creative abilities, paving the way for future innovations and breakthroughs. We look forward to sharing the results and their implications.
To dive into the details of the underlying neuroscience and unique challenges of the program, read our full press release.
Want to Learn More About Psychedelics and Creativity? Join Us for a Transformative Webinar
Are you ready to explore how psychedelics can revolutionize creative problem-solving? Dive deeper into the science and possibilities behind the Mind FLUX Hypothesis at our upcoming webinar, “Psychedelics and the Creative Mind.”
🗓 Date: Monday, February 17, 2025
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM CT / 2:00 PM PT
📍 Platform: Crowdcast (Online Event)
This interactive session will feature thought leaders at the forefront of psychedelic research and creativity, including Dr. Manoj Doss, Dr. Manesh Girn, and Dr. Bruce Damer. Together, we’ll uncover how psychedelics could catalyze the breakthroughs humanity needs to tackle our greatest challenges.
Webinar Highlights:
- Session 1: Debunking the Myths — Separating fact from fiction in psychedelic creativity with Dr. Manesh Girn.
- Session 2: Mind FLUX Unveiled — Understanding processing fluency and the science of cognitive flexibility with Dr. Manoj Doss.
- Session 3: The Path Ahead — Charting the future of psychedelic-assisted innovation with a panel of experts.
💡 This webinar is your opportunity to engage with cutting-edge science, ask questions, and connect with a community dedicated to unlocking human brilliance.
Secure your spot now and be part of the conversation shaping the future of innovation: Register Here