<p>Plainsman, there are a few things I’d like to point out. First of all, though much drug use stems from depression, not all does. Many intellectuals/writers/artists/musicians have used drugs throughout history to simply explore different perceptions of reality (which is no secret). I think many intelligent people (and not so intelligent people, to be fair) are curious about using substances that stimulate different parts of our brain and can open us up to new ideas, thoughts, or inspiration. I don’t think someone’s brain has to be functioning “not correctly” in order to be curious about drugs. There are many psychoactive drugs that are not detrimental to one’s physical health when used properly (with moderation and research), and provide many with meaningful philosophical experiences. For example, Ayahuasca, a brew made from plants containing DMT, has long been used by shamans in South American culture in religious rituals and healing. I’m not an advocate of the whole “hey guys, I’m bored, let’s go trip on acid!” sort of deal, but I think using hallucinogens (correctly) is a valid form of experimentation and I’d even go so far as to say recreation.</p>
<p>I respect your strong principles. Your hard work to put yourself through college is certainly admirable. However, I will be attending Reed next year and I’ve already seen a lot of generalizations about “pampered, coddled, rich kids” at elite liberal arts schools, which bothers me. My parents have been saving up since I was born for enough money for my education, and I’ll be receiving more than half of Reed’s tuition through financial aid. I’ll be working this summer and during the school year to make up for the rest of it. However, I still find time to research and experiment with drugs moderately. I also spend a lot of time in the reality we are all most familiar with, spending time with my friends and family, and hiking, reading, writing, listening to and making music: all the normal things that everyone does.</p>
<p>Anyway. There’s a lot more I could say about drugs use and the neurological impact of drugs on the human brain, but I’ll save it for my thesis.</p>