Reducing the risks of drug use: The case for set and setting

Taking any drug, including heroin, cocaine, Yage, or Fly Agaric, can be low-risk if the user is thoughtful, well-prepared, and aware of the best means and environments for use. The article discusses this proposition in relation to controlled, recreational, and unobtrusive patterns of drug use. It concludes that while the drug's effect is a primary motivation, the user's mindset (set) and the physical and social environment (setting) are fundamental to ensuring the effects match the user's intentions and expectations.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The central proposition of this article is that if people are thoughtful, well-prepared and aware of the means and best environments for using a particular drug, then the risks associated with the use of a particular drug – any drug – can be minimal. The types of drugs discussed in this context focus on those assumed to be the most ‘addictive’ – heroin and cocaine – to those less well-known but potentially more hazardous to use without prior knowledge and preparation – such as Yage and Fly Agaric. This proposition is discussed in the context of different definitions of relatively non-problematic patterns of drug use, specifically: controlled, recreational and unobtrusive. It is concluded that while the effect of taking a particular drug is a primary motivation to the user, the role of set and setting are of fundamental importance in ensuring that the effects of that drug are as intended for and expected by the user.