If it follows the trajectory of marijuana, it starts with clinical use and destigmatization. People who wouldn't normally support legalization or even decriminalization can and will be convinced by anecdotes and articles about safe, controlled, and therapeutic use. It happened with MJ, it can happen again.<p>That being said, safe, controlled use is especially important for powerfully psychoactive substances. Make no mistake--psilocybin is much more powerful than THC. While I support use of psilocybin and the aim of the petition and its authors, I recognize the essential role that medical marijuana played in winning hearts and minds of John Q. Public.<p>If you feel the same way, check out the work done by the Heffter Research Institute (<a href="http://heffter.org/" rel="nofollow">http://heffter.org/</a>) They've funded many studies on the effectiveness of psilocybin (disclosure: I know the founder).
In my opinion, for certain psychological issues mushrooms are much more beneficial than medical marijuana. However like the article states, mushrooms need to be treated with the respect they deserve and must be taken carefully and in a safe and comforting environment. I don't see this taking off yet though. The potential a mushroom trip going in the wrong direction is much more likely than THC and can be and extremely terrifying experience. I speak from experience, but if respected properly and approached in a good manner, I think they can be extremely beneficial.