Research Symposium

BIO

Daniel Arango is a senior at Florida State University pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in General Business. Daniel has been recognized for his academic achievement, earning placement on the President’s List and Dean’s List.

Daniel has developed research experience through his work as a research assistant with the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement at Florida State University. Under the mentorship of Dr. Mason Marks, he has researched global legal reforms surrounding psychedelic substances and analyzed international drug policy in comparison with United States law and international regulatory frameworks. His research project, Psychedelic Practice in Ancient and Modern China, examines the historical and contemporary role of psychedelic substances within Chinese cultural and legal contexts.

In addition to his research, Daniel has gained extensive public policy and government experience. He currently serves as a Legislative Intern with the Florida Senate, where he conducts research on pending legislation, prepares bill summaries, and assists with constituent communications. He has also served as a Student Senator at Florida State University, worked as an office aide with the Office of Senator Marco Rubio, and previously interned with Americans for Prosperity, gaining experience in political communication, legislative processes, and public engagement.

Following graduation, Daniel plans to pursue a Master of Business Administration to further develop his expertise in policy, business, and public affairs.

Psychedelic Practice in Ancient and Modern China

Abstract

This poster will examine the history of psychedelics usage in China, and how changes in cultural and political environments have redefined these substances from being part of traditional spiritual practices to therapeutic tools used in a secular society. Furthermore, this poster will first discuss the use of psychoactive substances in ancient China that shamans and ritual specialists ‘used’ for healing, divination, and communication with the spirit world. These early modus operandi made changed states of consciousness a part of the religious psyche of ancient Chinese society. Today, psychedelic use in China is no longer framed as a spiritual activity rather is a therapeutic one used in upper-middle-class professionals. With these therapeutic sessions focusing on mental health, finding one's purpose in life, managing emotions, and enhancing performance. Furthermore, this poster will make a broader political and regulatory statement about the implications of this change in approach particularly with regard to China’s secular authoritarian regime and its strict regulation of religion and use of controlled substances.

Keywords: Psychedelic, Ancient, Modern, China