Chapter
The Cult That Tried to Cure Addiction with Hallucinogens
35:42 - 39:10 (03:28)
A group called Synanon, founded in 1958, started as rehabilitation center that tried to cure addiction by forcing members to face harsh criticism from the group and its leader, then they began using hallucinogens.
Clips
Dedrick, who started by providing couches for struggling addicts, eventually came to view addicts as immature and not fully adults.
35:42 - 38:04 (02:22)
Summary
Dedrick, who started by providing couches for struggling addicts, eventually came to view addicts as immature and not fully adults. However, after inviting a young heroin addict named Whitey Walker to join the group, their approach began to shift towards treating addicts more compassionately.
ChapterThe Cult That Tried to Cure Addiction with Hallucinogens
EpisodePart One: Synanon: The Drug Rehab Program That Built Its Own Army
PodcastBehind the Bastards
The origins of the name “Synanon” are unclear, with various theories including that it was a portmanteau of “synergy” and “anon,” an acronym for “Save Your Neighbourhood from Narcotics,” or a mispronunciation of “Sinanon” (Sins Anonymous).
38:04 - 39:10 (01:06)
Summary
The origins of the name “Synanon” are unclear, with various theories including that it was a portmanteau of “synergy” and “anon,” an acronym for “Save Your Neighbourhood from Narcotics,” or a mispronunciation of “Sinanon” (Sins Anonymous). Despite originally starting as the “Tender Loving Care Club,” Synanon’s founder Charles Dederich rented a storefront in the shady Venice neighborhood to start his addiction recovery program.