Shulgin Rating Scale

Shulgin Rating Scale is a simple yet effective tool used to quantify the subjective effects of psychoactive substances. It was developed by the renowned American chemist and psychopharmacologist, Alexander Shulgin.

Overview

The Shulgin Rating Scale is a five-point scale that ranges from -1 to +4. Each point on the scale represents a different level of intensity of the psychoactive effects experienced by the user. The scale is designed to be used in conjunction with a detailed account of the user's experience.

Scale Details

The Shulgin Rating Scale is as follows:

• -1 : A substance that produces a noticeable physiological or psychological effect that is generally undesirable.
• 0 : A substance that produces no noticeable physiological or psychological effects.
• +1 : A substance that produces noticeable physiological or psychological effects.
• +2 : A substance that produces strong physiological or psychological effects.
• +3 : A substance that produces very strong physiological or psychological effects.
• +4 : A rare and profound transcendental state, which has been described as a total loss of subjective self-identity.

Usage

The Shulgin Rating Scale is used primarily in the field of psychopharmacology to measure the effects of psychoactive substances. It is particularly useful in research settings where a quantitative measure of subjective effects is required.

Criticism

While the Shulgin Rating Scale is widely used, it has been criticized for its subjective nature. Critics argue that the scale is too reliant on the user's personal interpretation of their experience, which can vary greatly from person to person.

See Also

• Alexander Shulgin
• Psychopharmacology
• Psychoactive substance