The Rise of Microdosing in the Tech Industry

In the highly competitive environment of the technology industry, professionals are constantly searching for ways to improve productivity, creativity, and focus. One controversial trend that gained attention in Silicon Valley is microdosing. Microdosing refers to the practice of taking extremely small amounts of psychedelic substances such as LSD or psilocybin mushrooms. The doses are so small that they do not produce hallucinations but are believed by some users to enhance mental performance.

The trend began to attract public attention in the early 2010s, although some scientists and artists experimented with similar practices decades earlier. In Silicon Valley, where innovation and efficiency are highly valued, some entrepreneurs and engineers started experimenting with microdosing to boost creativity and problem-solving abilities.

Several well-known figures in the technology world have spoken about the practice. For example, Tim Ferriss, an entrepreneur and author, has publicly discussed research on psychedelics and their potential benefits. Other influential voices in the tech ecosystem have also shown curiosity about these substances, especially in the context of creativity and mental health research.

Supporters of microdosing claim that it can increase concentration, improve mood, and encourage innovative thinking. Some individuals say that microdosing helps them approach problems from new perspectives and maintain energy during long working hours.

However, critics argue that the benefits are largely anecdotal and not yet supported by sufficient scientific evidence. There are also legal concerns because most psychedelic substances remain illegal in many countries. In addition, experts warn that self-experimentation can carry psychological risks.

In recent years, the conversation around psychedelics has expanded beyond Silicon Valley. Some countries have begun researching the medical use of substances such as psilocybin for treating depression and anxiety. In Spain, interest in the topic has also grown, mainly in academic research and public discussions about mental health treatments. Nevertheless, recreational microdosing remains controversial and legally restricted.

Today, microdosing sits at the intersection of technology culture, neuroscience, and personal productivity. Whether it proves to be a meaningful tool for innovation or simply a passing trend remains an open question.

3. Reading Comprehension Questions

  1. What is microdosing?

  2. Why did the trend become popular in Silicon Valley?

  3. What benefits do supporters claim?

  4. What concerns do critics raise?

  5. Has the trend reached Spain?

4. Vocabulary Match (12 Words)

Match the vocabulary with the correct definition.

VocabularyDefinition
1. MicrodosingA. A small quantity of something
2. PsychedelicB. Related to substances that affect perception
3. ProductivityC. Ability to produce results efficiently
4. InnovationD. A new idea or method
5. AnecdotalE. Based on personal stories rather than scientific proof
6. ControversialF. Causing disagreement
7. CreativityG. Ability to produce original ideas
8. ResearchH. Careful study to discover facts
9. EvidenceI. Information that proves something
10. ExperimentationJ. Testing something new
11. EfficiencyK. Working well without wasting time
12. PerspectiveL. A particular way of viewing a situation

5. Synonym Match (10)

Match the word with its synonym.

WordSynonym
1. EnhanceA. Improve
2. BoostB. Increase
3. DebateC. Discussion
4. TrendD. Fashion
5. ConcernE. Worry
6. ExperimentF. Test
7. CreativeG. Imaginative
8. AdvantageH. Benefit
9. DisadvantageI. Drawback
10. EvidenceJ. Proof

6. Advantages vs Disadvantages (Speaking)

Work in pairs and discuss.

Possible Advantages

  • Increased creativity

  • Better focus

  • Improved mood

  • Greater productivity

Possible Disadvantages

  • Legal issues

  • Lack of scientific evidence

  • Health risks

  • Ethical concerns in the workplace

Task:
Decide whether companies should tolerate or prohibit microdosing.

7. Role-Play Activity

Scenario 1: Startup Meeting

Roles:

A – Startup CEO
You believe microdosing helps creativity and innovation.

B – HR Manager
You are concerned about legal and ethical problems.

Discuss whether the company should allow employees to microdose.

Scenario 2: Podcast Interview

Roles:

A – Technology Journalist
You are interviewing an entrepreneur about productivity trends.

B – Tech Entrepreneur
Explain why some people in Silicon Valley experiment with microdosing.

8. Communicative Activities

Activity 1: Opinion Line

Students stand on a line depending on their opinion.

Statement:

“Microdosing should be accepted in high-performance industries.”

Students explain their position.

Activity 2: Debate

Two groups:

Group A: Microdosing encourages innovation.
Group B: Microdosing is dangerous and irresponsible.

Each group prepares arguments and debates.

Activity 3: Problem-Solving Discussion

Situation:

A tech company discovers that several employees are microdosing to stay productive.

Questions:

  1. Should the company ignore it?

  2. Should they create a policy?

  3. Should governments regulate productivity drugs?

9. Homework Writing Task (C1)

Write 200–250 words answering:

“Will microdosing become a normal productivity tool in the future workplace?”

Include:

  • advantages

  • disadvantages

  • your opinion.

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