Story perspectives

MDMA Study Reveals Surprising Effects on Extremist Beliefs

1/29/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Brendan, a former leader of Identity Evropa, underwent a life-changing experience during a 2020 MDMA study at the University of Chicago.
Researchers Harriet de Wit and Mike Bremmer discovered Brendan's extremist background after he filled out a questionnaire.
Alarmed by his message, de Wit instructed Bremmer to investigate further, fearing Brendan might take violent action.
This incident highlights the unexpected effects of MDMA on individuals with extremist beliefs.

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Story summary

Brendan, a former leader of Identity Evropa, underwent a life-changing experience during a 2020 MDMA study at the University of Chicago.
Researchers Harriet de Wit and Mike Bremmer discovered Brendan's extremist background after he filled out a questionnaire.
Alarmed by his message, de Wit instructed Bremmer to investigate further, fearing Brendan might take violent action.
This incident highlights the unexpected effects of MDMA on individuals with extremist beliefs.