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
Research Query: LSD Testing in the 1950s
A researcher hopes to contact volunteer participants in “truth sera” experiments.
You might also like
The Woman Who Penned the Case for War
Mercy Otis Warren’s poetry and plays incited the Patriot movement.
The Framer Who Refused to Sign the Constitution
Harvard’s Elbridge Gerry helped draft the U.S. Constitution, but worried it might create a new monarch.
When the Revolution Hit Cambridge, Harvard Moved to Concord
College students broke hearts and windows during their year in exile.
Most popular
Explore More From Current Issue
Houghton Library Displays Revolution-era News and Propaganda
A new exhibit reveals how early Americans learned about the war.
A New “Black Swan” Musical Cranks Up the Tension
The creative team of the A.R.T.’s new show dish on adapting Darren Aronofsky’s thriller classic from screen to stage.