In the first half of the 1950s, Henry Beecher of Harvard Medical School oversaw a series of experiments, sponsored by the U.S. Army Research Council, that were designed to test “truth sera” using various drugs, including LSD. The drugs were tested on volunteers, some of them Harvard students. Now Beecher professor of anesthesia James Rathmell is preparing an historical article on Beecher and his research. If you—or anyone you know—volunteered for Beecher’s experiments, Rathmell would like to hear from you: rathmell.james@mgh.harvard.edu. Confidentiality will be assured for those who wish it.
Research Query: LSD Testing in the 1950s
A researcher hopes to contact volunteer participants in “truth sera” experiments.
You might also like
In Sermon, Garber Urges Harvard Community to ‘Defend and Protect’ Institutions
Harvard’s president uses traditional Memorial Church address to encourage divergent views.
Highlights from Harvard’s Past
The Medical School goes coed, University poet wins Nobel Prize.
A Look at Harvard’s Distinctive Doctoral Regalia
On regalia, a Jack-of-all-trades retirement, and a Bok’s office bon mot.
Most popular
Explore More From Current Issue
Your Views on Harvard’s Standoff, Antisemitism, and More
Readers comment on the controversial July-August cover, authoritarianism, and scientific research.
