Intoxicants have played an important part in societies all over the world throughout history. Shows that intoxicants in various cultures have all had a central role in religious or social life, & that the altered states of consciousness produced by each intoxicant are shaped by cultural values. Explores the role of scientists & artists in introducing new hallucinogens, such as mescaline & LSD, into the West. Looks at the social aspects of milder stimulants, including coffee, tea, qat, betel, cola, coca & pituri, showing that their significance extends beyond the pleasure of the individual to the religious, economic, political & sexual life of communities. Illustrated.