Peyote and the Definition of Narcotic

Abstract

W57ITHIN the last few years several American anthropologists have declared that peyote (Lophophora williamsii) should not be called a narcotic (La Barre et al. 1951; Slotkin 1956:50-51). Since this term is frequently applied to peyote, not only in popular contexts but also in anthropological literature (including La Barre 1938), an examination the arguments used to support their position seems justified. Although a considerable number substances used by primitive peoples have been labelled narcotics, there appears to be no definition the term in general use by anthropologists. The designation and stimulants may be found in listings cultural categories, but it is defined for the most part by example (Murdock et al. 1950:27; Notes and Queries 1951:246). Thus, Murdock speaks drugs consumed for non-therapeutic purposes (e.g. tobacco, betel, coca, peyote), while treating alcoholic beverages under a related category. In search more adequate criteria for determining what a narcotic is, the anthropologists concerned with peyote have turned to the precise definitions medicine and pharmacology. They state (La Barre et al. 1951:582) that according to Webster a narcotic is a drug that 'allays sensibility, relieves pain and produces profound sleep' and that according to Merck's Manual, the symptoms drug addiction are increased tolerance and dependence. Since peyote does not produce these effects, they reason that it is not properly called a narcotic.1 Slotkin (1956:50-51) repeats this argument in greater detail and further makes explicit the implication that a narcotic, if frequently consumed, inevitably produces addiction. This approach appears to be gaining acceptance, since it was stated in a recent review in the AMERICAN ANTHROPOLOGIST that of course peyote is not a narcotic (Boyd 1958:214). However, even a brief examination the considerable medical literature on narcotics reveals enough difference opinion that it cannot be relied upon for a positive assertion that peyote is not a narcotic. To be sure, the definition cited from Webster is paralleled in medical dictionaries, and is in accord with the Greek etymology the term. The New Gould Medical Dictionary (1956), for example, defines narcotic as: