Our Values

illustrated graphic of 9 people with different hair, skin, and clothing colors on colorful backgrounds

The BCSP is committed to embedding our values and principles in all that we do: in the questions we ask, the way we collaborate, the stories we cover, and how we conduct scientific research. Living into our values looks different in each of our pillars: basic science, journalism, culture and community, and applied research and policy. This is an iterative, long-term process, and the BCSP is fully committed to listening and learning. 

  • Equity and reciprocity. Equity and reciprocity require changing systems, practices, processes, and resource redistribution; recognizing and addressing oppression and related systemic barriers to opportunity; and ensuring that we provide spaces in which people experience a sense of belonging to a community within the field of psychedelics. We recognize that psychedelics-related work in academia often ignores or appropriates millennia of Indigenous practices with these plants, fungi, and compounds. We aim to ensure that our collaborations with individuals, communities, and organizations are rooted in mutual benefit, respect, and shared growth. 
  • Integrity and transparency. As a trusted source for the psychedelic ecosystem and those who are curious about it, we work to ensure that everyone has access to the BCSP’s knowledge. We believe that transparency builds trust. We are transparent about what we do, why we do it, what we learn, what we know and do not know, the impact we have, and when we cannot be transparent (such as with some aspects of clinical trials).  
  • The development of rigorous research. We strive for excellence in our research and have a multi-faceted view of evidence, inclusive of a range of methodologies to gather and analyze both qualitative and quantitative data and information. 
  • Responsibility as stewards of public resources. We are keenly aware of the need to lead ethically in this complex landscape with great care and awareness of our impact. We hold ourselves accountable to the highest ethical standards, ensure that our actions align with our mission and values, and remain open to feedback and continuous improvement.
  • Curiosity. Curiosity opens the door to exploring not just scientific knowledge but also diverse perspectives and multiple ways of knowing, creating space for the integration of insights from both traditional wisdom and modern science. Our curiosity helps us challenge assumptions and change course based on what we learn.
  • Community engagement and collaboration. We are stronger when we work in community—when more than one mind, set of beliefs, or disciplines addresses a complex topic. We believe that complicated societal issues are best addressed by collaborative efforts that include multiple perspectives. We foster environments where growth, reflection, and learning can occur.
  • Team capacity building and well-being. We believe that investing in our team, distributing power, engaging with respect and care, and supporting inclusion and belonging within the BCSP leads to greater job satisfaction and a deeper sense of purpose. By cultivating an environment where individuals feel valued and supported, we align more deeply with our mission and enhance our impact.