In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Substance Use & Misuse, researchers have unveiled a startling trend in the world of American business: a substantial increase in LSD use among managers. As a result of the open admissions of business giants like Steve Jobs and Bill Gates, there is growing interest in traditional psychedelics and their potential effects on creativity, problem-solving, and personal growth.
Lead researcher Benjamin Korman, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Bamberg, sought to separate fact from media sensationalism. He utilized the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, a comprehensive annual survey encompassing a diverse cross-section of Americans, to gather valuable data on LSD use trends among full-time working individuals aged 18 and above. The study focused on data from 2006 to 2014, a period marking the resurgence of interest in psychedelics.
The findings were nothing short of mind-blowing. Over this period, LSD use saw a consistent increase among full-time employees. What stood out, however, was that business managers exhibited an even more pronounced surge in LSD usage, reporting a 0.07% increase compared to their non-managerial counterparts at 0.02%.
Interestingly, the study debunked the assumption that changing perceptions of LSD risks were driving this surge. Both managers and non-managers demonstrated consistent evaluations of LSD hazards over time. This suggests that alternative factors, potentially related to the perceived positive effects of LSD, may be influencing this trend.
Korman noted that the study's scope, limited to the years 2006–2014, leaves room for further exploration of the current landscape of LSD use among corporate managers. Future studies will be crucial in providing a comprehensive understanding of this phenomenon. Additionally, while the study identified a significant rise in LSD use, it did not delve into the underlying motivations behind this shift.
The implications of this study are far-reaching, shedding light on a previously overlooked aspect of workplace behavior. The surge in LSD use among business managers raises questions about its potential impact on decision-making, leadership styles, and overall organizational dynamics. As Korman aptly put it, "My study only showed what wasn't explaining the effect, not what is."
As the research continues, we may unlock valuable insights into the evolving landscape of workplace behavior and the potential ramifications for the business world at large.
