Stoned Ape Theory + Fungal Intelligence — A Rigorous Exploration of the Origin of Human Consciousness
- th1sandth8tcom
- Jun 14
- 9 min read
Understanding the Hypothesis that the consumption of psychedelic fungi played a crucial role in the development of human mind + culture
Resources:
Stoned Ape Theory + Fungal Intelligence — A Rigorous Exploration of the Origin of Human Consciousness
Understanding the Hypothesis that the consumption of psychedelic fungi played a crucial role in the development of human mind + culture
Through the lens of Afterskool, Paul Stamets, Terence McKenna, Neil De Grasse Tyson
Wake up, it’s Stoned Ape Day. Of all the content I’ve streamed regarding Stoned Ape, this 11 min clip by @Afterskool is the gold standard. If you’re not already familiar with this entertainingly enlightening youtube account, it’s time to change that; as per most of Afterskool’s videos, stoned ape theory + fungal intelligence brings a podcast conversation to life with fascinating animations and informational visuals, this time between Rogan and the most accomplished mycologist in the world, Paul Stamets, as they discuss the widely controversial Stoned Ape Theory, first proposed by Terence McKenna in 1992.
The interconnectedness between fungi, human evolution, and consciousness is explored primarily through the lens of Stoned Ape. Put plainly, the theory suggests that the consumption of psilocybin-containing mushrooms by early hominids played a crucial role in human evolution, particularly in the development of consciousness and language. This theory, which is technically only a hypothesis, attempts to explain the sudden doubling of the human brain size around 200,000 years ago, a phenomenon that still puzzles anthropologists today. McKenna argued that the psychedelic experiences induced by these mushrooms could have enhanced neurogenesis, visual acuity, sexual arousal, and social bonding, providing evolutionary advantages to our Homo Erectus ancestors, who, after hundreds of thousands of years of munching, more than doubled their brain size and evolved into modern Homo Sapiens. He argued that the psychoactive compound, psilocybin, likely stimulated neurogenesis, the creation of new neurons and neural pathways, which accounts for this dramatic increase in brain size observed in early humans. Stamets notes the abundance of psilocybin mushrooms growing from animal dung, a food source commonly foraged by our ancestors, may make this theory not just possible but actually viable. The Stoned Ape Theory and the concept of fungal intelligence present intriguing, albeit controversial, perspectives on human evolution and the interconnectedness of life on Earth. While these ideas remain largely speculative, they offer thought-provoking narratives that challenge our understanding of consciousness and our place in the natural world – and considering there’s still no alternative explanation for the doubling of the human brain size ~200,000 years ago, it seems like the most likely hypothesis as of now.
Stamets starts by highlighting the profound ancestral connection between humans and fungi, suggesting we share a more recent common ancestry with them than any other kingdom. He paints a picture of fungi as ancient and intelligent beings, with vast networks of mycelium possessing more neural connections than the human brain, going as far as to suggest that we are all “descendents of fungi”, and in essence, "fungal bodies.” He specifically points out that humans share a more recent common ancestor with fungi than with plants, diverging approximately 650 million years ago; he suggests that this close evolutionary relationship points to the fact that fungi may have played a significant role in shaping human life on Earth. Neil De Grasse Tyson offers the same sentiments in this clip as he tells us how he lost sleep for weeks contemplating that “we and mushrooms are more alike then either we or mushrooms are to green plants”.
Stamets speaks to the fact that, for over a billion years, mushrooms have maintained their form, while our form evolved much later. This makes them "overlords of the ecosystem," possessing vast networks of mycelia that can span thousands of acres, creating a neural web even more complex than the human brain and thus suggesting a form of distributed intelligence that far predates human consciousness, “more neural connections exist in a 1,000-acre mycelial mass than we have in our brains”. He continues on about the adaptability of fungal networks, describing the ability of slime molds to solve complex problems, such as optimizing the Tokyo subway system's efficiency. The Japanese subway mycelium experiment demonstrates a form of intelligence that is not only complex but also adaptable as the fungus reorganized itself to mirror Tokyo’s subway system more efficiently than its human-designed counterpart, “The mycelium, after just 28 hours, found a more optimized way of finding the end point than the engineers had crafted the Tokyo underground metro system. So the entire current Japanese metro system is based on the mycelium network’s movement because it is intelligent. So when you consume mushrooms, you’re actually tapping into data sets and truth that come from the Earth”. This case study showcases the sophisticated problem-solving capabilities of fungi, which may challenge our traditional notions of intelligence and raise questions about the diverse ways in which consciousness can manifest in the natural world.
Returning to the Stoned Ape Theory, Stamets notes that psilocybin can act as a powerful neurotransmitter as it has been shown to promote neurogenesis and create new neural pathways, potentially explaining rapid cognitive development in early humans – and the reason why Stamets overcame his chronic stutter after his first ever mushroom trip. Stamets delves into how psilocybin not only affects neuroplasticity but also influences epigenetic neurogenesis, potentially altering gene expression to optimize brain function. This "resetting" of neural pathways may have contributed to the extinction of fear responses, promoting traits like empathy, creativity, and enhanced problem-solving abilities; such cognitive shifts would have given early humans a significant evolutionary advantage, “Psilocybin leads to epigenetic neurogenesis. It opens the floodgates of our senses and leads to increased courage and kindness. People like to follow courageous yet kind leaders, they're the two most significant traits in leaders”.
If the Stoned Ape Theory holds any truth, it paints a vivid picture of how psilocybin mushrooms could have shaped early human societies. The enhanced empathy and courage that psilocybin is believed to induce could have fostered stronger social bonds and cooperative behavior within groups. Improved problem-solving abilities would have been invaluable for survival, helping our ancestors to navigate complex challenges and develop innovative solutions. Enhanced communication skills, perhaps even through the emergence of early language or symbolic systems, could have revolutionized the way information and ideas were shared, further fueling the development of culture and technology.
The theory suggests that early humans consuming psilocybin mushrooms, particularly Psilocybe cubensis, led to enhanced neuroplasticity and cognitive functions, “The most significant mushroom growing out of poop is psilocybe cubensis. Psilocybin subs as serotonin and becomes a better neurotransmitter, causing new neurons to form, activating neurogenesis and new pathways of knowledge. I believe this speaks to the mystery that the human brain doubled in size in a million years or less than 200k years”. Psilocybin, when ingested, is converted to psilocin, which mimics serotonin and activates neurogenesis, leading to the formation of new neural pathways, which could have facilitated the rapid doubling of the human brain size within a relatively short evolutionary period, around 200,000 years. This neurochemical transformation might explain why humans evolved unique abilities such as complex language, artistic expression, and social behaviors.
Stamets is also known for singing the praises of mushrooms for their physical healing properties, including their potential to cure cancer as evidenced by the case of his mother’s turkey tail consumption. He describes how his mother’s tumours disappeared after mushroom therapy and how there are studies that show their effects on increased immunity in breast cancer and beyond, claiming “there are no drugs that have the healing properties that mushrooms do”. Turkey tail mushrooms contain compounds called polysaccharopeptides that help stimulate the immune system; in Paul Stamets' mother's case, she reportedly used turkey tail mushroom supplements alongside conventional cancer treatments, and her doctors observed tumor regression in direct relation with the turkey tail treatment. Another clinical trial found that turkey tail extract increased certain immune cells in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
While the Stoned Ape Theory remains a controversial and unprovable hypothesis, it offers a thought-provoking perspective on human cognitive evolution and our relationship with the natural world – and with the realisation that anthropologists remain puzzled by the human brain doubling in power ~200,000 years ago, it’s a theory that warrants more attention and plausibility. The notion that psilocybin mushrooms played a role in the rapid expansion of human brain size and cognitive abilities challenges us to reconsider our understanding of consciousness and evolution. Although direct evidence is lacking, recent research into the profound effects of psychedelics on the brain lends some credence to the idea that these substances can significantly alter perception, cognition, and potentially even neurological pathways. Furthermore, the concept of fungal intelligence extends beyond mere speculation, inviting us to explore the possibility of tapping into ancient ecological wisdom that could help address global challenges such as biodiversity loss. He suggests that by bridging the communication gap between humans and fungi, we might tap into ancient ecological wisdom that could help us navigate environmental crises. While maintaining a critical and scientific perspective, these ideas encourage us to consider the profound interconnectedness of all life forms and the potential for consciousness expansion. As we face unprecedented environmental and social challenges, the Stoned Ape Theory and explorations of fungal intelligence may inspire innovative thinking and a deeper appreciation for the complexity of life on Earth, potentially guiding us towards the next quantum leap in human consciousness.
6 Ways Mushrooms Can Save the World – TedTalk by Paul Stamets
Description
Discover six groundbreaking ways mushrooms can revolutionize our world in this enlightening 18-minute TED Talk. Delve into the fascinating realm of mycology as a renowned expert explores the incredible potential of mycelium, the vegetative part of fungi. Learn how these remarkable organisms can address global challenges, from environmental conservation to medical breakthroughs. Gain insights into cutting-edge research and innovative applications that showcase the transformative power of fungi across various fields. Expand your understanding of nature's hidden networks and their potential to shape a sustainable future.
Summary + Review
In Paul Stamets' TED Talk "6 Ways Mushrooms Can Save the World," he passionately explores how mycelium, the vegetative network of fungi, holds the potential to address critical environmental and health challenges. The six ways Stamets proposes mushrooms can revolutionize our world - from cleaning up oil spills to creating sustainable fuel - are presented with a mix of scientific backing and some speculative potential:
Cleaning Polluted Environments: Mycelium can break down and remove toxic substances from contaminated soil, a process called mycoremediation. This offers a natural way to clean up oil spills and other environmental pollutants as Stamets discusses how certain mushroom species can break down petroleum, potentially offering a natural solution to environmental disasters. Additionally, he describes how mushrooms can absorb and concentrate heavy metals, potentially cleaning up contaminated environments and soil.
Creating Sustainable Pesticides: Stamets has developed mushroom-based insecticides (and filed for 22 patents) that are non-toxic to humans and animals but effective against pests. These fungi can attract and destroy harmful insects without using harmful chemicals.
Fighting Diseases: Mushrooms, including certain species with antiviral properties, can help combat diseases such as smallpox and flu. Their natural compounds hold promise for future medical applications.
Restoring Ecosystems: Mycelium plays a crucial role in ecosystems, acting as a natural internet connecting plants and trees. It facilitates communication and resource-sharing between organisms, contributing to healthier and more resilient ecosystems.
Producing Sustainable Biofuel: Stamets suggests that fungi can be used to create alternative renewable biofuels like ethanol, offering a more environmentally friendly energy source than traditional fossil fuels.
Supporting Human Health: Beyond combating diseases, mushrooms can support human health by boosting the immune system and fostering neurogenesis, potentially enhancing cognitive function and resilience to neurological disorders.
The TED Talk is a captivating exploration of the often-overlooked potential of fungi to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. In this 18-minute presentation, Stamets, a renowned mycologist, combines scientific insight with visionary thinking to argue for the transformative power of mushrooms in fields ranging from environmental conservation to medical breakthroughs. His enthusiasm is infectious as he weaves together personal anecdotes, research findings, and speculative ideas to create a compelling narrative. The talk is particularly strong when Stamets discusses practical applications, such as using mushrooms for pest control as a non-toxic alternative to chemical pesticides, or harnessing fungi to clean up oil spills and absorb heavy metals from polluted soil. These examples, backed by research and real-world trials, demonstrate the immediate potential of fungal solutions to environmental problems. One of the most striking examples of the prevalence of fungi is the giant fungus in Oregon's Malheur National Forest, covering 2,200 acres and considered the largest living organism on Earth; this case serves as a powerful symbol of the interconnectedness of nature and the potential for mycelium to truly be the mother of land based life. Stamets' passion sometimes leads him into territory that more conservative scientists might consider speculative, such as the potential use of mycelium to terraform other planets. But as NASA Explores the Potential of Fungi to Grow Space Habitats, even some of the most seemingly outlandish benefits + potential uses of fungi have scientific backing.
Overall, Stamets' TED Talk is a thought-provoking exploration of the hidden world of fungi and their potential to revolutionize various aspects of our lives and environment, leaving the audience with a newfound appreciation for mushrooms and the exciting possibilities they hold for the future of our planet. He inspires hope by showing how mushrooms offer a sustainable, natural solution to many environmental issues, while also underscoring the need to protect diverse species for their contributions to human well-being; the talk serves as a call to action, urging scientists, policymakers, and the public to take fungi seriously as a tool for addressing global challenges. While some claims may require further substantiation, the talk excels in inspiring curiosity and expanding our understanding of mushrooms' role in ecosystems and their potential for solving global issues. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in innovative approaches to environmental and health challenges, as well as those curious about the hidden wonders of the natural world.
Rating: 9.2/10
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