E for Ecstasy by Nicholas Saunders
Appendix 1: Reference Section

104 International Journal on Drug Policy, Vol. 2 Oct. 1989 Ethnographic Notes on Ecstasy Use Among Professionals by Rosenbaum Morgan and Beck

This is a study of a group of drug users whose lives are much more focused around their careers than around any drug. It includes 100 in-depth interviews. Typically, these tend to be people who used LSD in the sixties but have since led drug-free lives except, perhaps, for moderate use of alcohol and marijuana. Ecstasy presents them with an opportunity to be open and relaxed within the context of a professional lifestyle that is stressful and regulated. They use MDMA very sparingly (three or four times a year) because "they are too busy, too discriminating [they are concerned about the effect on their health] and a bit too old". They plan ahead and arrange a two-day event with a few close friends in a quiet location with comforts, music and refreshments well prepared, starting in the morning so as to get a good nights' sleep. Newcomers are well prepared and looked after. Some will even match the dose to body weight, using 1 mg per pound.

[100 mg for someone weighing 7 stone.]

"During the trip there is much warm, affectionate conversation, a feeling of bonding and closeness with friends. Generally, the spirit is positive and euphoric. There is much affirmation of life, of relationships," the report says.

The second day is spent quietly together, and is regarded by some as the most valuable part of the experience, when the "best interactive work can be done".

The report concludes that people who live highly stressed lives can condense the relaxation of a fortnight's holiday into a weekend.