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
At Harvard Talk, Retired Supreme Court Justice Breyer Defends Shadow Docket
The current law professor also spoke about affirmative action, partisanship, and the limits of “bright-line rules.”
Harvard Alumni Honored for University Service
The 2026 Harvard Medal recipients will be honored on June 5.
How Women Are Changing the NBA
From coaching staffs to front offices, female leaders are bringing new strategies to men’s basketball.
Most popular
Explore More From Current Issue
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.
Houghton Library Displays Revolution-era News and Propaganda
A new exhibit reveals how early Americans learned about the war.
We’re All Harvard Influencers, Like It or Not
In the digital age, it’s hard to avoid playing into the mythology.