Honouring Amanda Feilding (1943-2025)
Amanda Feilding, Countess of Wemyss and March, passed away on May 22, 2025, at her ancestral home of Beckley Park in Oxfordshire. She leaves behind a profound legacy as one of the most influential figures in the modern renaissance of psychedelic science and drug policy reform. Through her pioneering work as a researcher, advocate, and founder of the Beckley Foundation, Feilding transformed the global conversation around psychoactive substances, mental health, and human consciousness.
Early Advocacy for Cannabis and Consciousness (1960s-1990s)
Amanda Feilding’s journey into the world of altered states of consciousness began in the late 1960s, when she became a vocal advocate for the cognitive benefits of cannabis and LSD. Long before mainstream recognition, she argued for the potential of cannabis to enhance creativity, spiritual experience, and emotional insight, while at the same time advocating for the transformative and therapeutic power of LSD. Amanda also supported research into the therapeutic properties of cannabis compounds and their potential to reduce reliance on opioids for pain management. Her belief in cognitive liberty – the right to explore and shape one’s own consciousness – formed the philosophical foundation of her life’s work.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Amanda remained deeply engaged with consciousness research. She independently studied the effects of psychoactive substances, using her experiences to inform a vision of scientifically guided exploration. Her early support for destigmatizing cannabis use and integrating it into wellness practices marked her as a trailblazer decades ahead of her time.
Championing Consciousness: The Beckley Foundation (Founded 1998)
In 1998, Amanda Feilding established the Beckley Foundation with a dual mission: to advance scientific understanding of psychoactive substances like LSD, psilocybin, and cannabis, she sought to dismantle the stigma surrounding them by promoting rigorous scientific research. Under her leadership, the Foundation became a global hub for cutting-edge studies, collaborating with leading institutions such as Imperial College London, Johns Hopkins University, and King’s College London.
Advocating for Rational Drug Policies (2000s-2010s)
Beyond the laboratory, Feilding was a formidable advocate for drug policy reform. In the early 2000s, she convened a series of influential seminars at the House of Lords, bringing together scientists, policymakers, and thought leaders to discuss alternative approaches to drug control. Through the Beckley Foundation’s Policy Programme, she commissioned over 40 reports analyzing the consequences of drug prohibition and proposing health-focused, cost-effective alternatives.
In 2011, Amanda Feilding launched the Beckley Foundation Global Initiative for Drug Policy Reform, uniting international leaders to promote humane and evidence-based drug policies. Her efforts contributed to a growing global movement recognizing the need for reform and the potential benefits of regulated access to psychoactive substances.
Pioneering Psychedelic Research (2010s-2020s)
Feilding’s commitment to scientific inquiry led to groundbreaking research into the effects of psychedelic on the human brain, In collaboration with Professor David Nutt, she co-founded the Beckley/Imperial Research Programme, which produced the world’s first brain imaging studies of LSD and psilocybin. These studies revealed how psychedelics affect cerebral blood flow and neural connectivity, offering insights into their potential to treat conditions like depression and addiction.
One notable study demonstrated that psilocybin could alleviate treatment-resistant depression, with 67% of participants reporting relief after one week and 42% maintaining improvements after three months. Amanda’s research also explored the therapeutic potential of MDMA and the role of cannabis compounds like CBD in mental health treatment.
A Lasting Legacy
Amanda Feilding’s contributions to science and policy have left an indelible mark on the world. Her visionary leadership and unwavering dedication have paved the way for a more enlightened understanding of psychoactive substances and their role in human health. Once dubbed the “Queen of Consciousness,” her legacy continues to inspire researchers, advocates, and individuals seeking to explore the depths of the human mind.
In honoring Amanda Feilding, we celebrate a life devoted to expanding the boundaries of knowledge and compassion. Her work has opened new avenues for healing and personal growth, reminding us of the profound potential that lies within the human spirit.
You can read more about Amanda's exemplary body of work by visitng https://www.beckleyfoundation.org/