Merlin’s (2003) hypothesis is that “humans have a very ancient tradition involving

Merlin’s (2003) hypothesis is that “humans have a very ancient tradition involving the use of mind-altering experiences to produce profound, more or less spiritual and cultural understanding” (p. 295).
In an essay of 750–1000 words (4–5 pages double-spaced) use one plant presented in this article to argue for or against this hypothesis. To defend your argument, make sure you correctly identify what the archaeological data indicates about past uses of the plant. You may want to do research using the TRU Library to find evidence that contradicts that which is presented in your paper. You also will need to provide the following background information:
• The common and scientific names, as well as the family, to which the plant belongs
• Its geographic origins, current distribution, and current uses
• The chemical nature of the psychoactive principle, and its physiological effects