Have you ever used any activity as a distraction, as Nora and Daniel do with their work? Do you see parallels between this kind of behavior and the recreational use of mind-altering substances?

Nora, Daniel and Dr. Croft are all fascinated by the effects of ether, with which Daniel is familiar as a "dinner party drug." Although their interest in it is academic, Nora and Daniel both find their research of ether a pleasant distraction from the stress of Daniel's situation. Have you ever used any activity as a distraction, as Nora and Daniel do with their work? Do you see parallels between this kind of behavior and the recreational use of mind-altering substances?

Of course. In our era excessive screen time on TV or social media has become a distraction for many. Beyond the mild-altering effects of the ether, work itself for Dr, Croft, Daniel and Nora puts them in the zone, or flow. It's a good thing they had Mrs. Phipps to bring them back to earth now and again. The excitement of new discovery is itself such an exhilarating activity, much like the endorphin rush that comes from exercise.

Of course, a good book, a good show on TV, blasting the music as loud as it will go, coloring, scrapbooking, taking a drive, or a walk. No, I cannot relate in ANY way to using mind altering drugs. I used to tell my kids that our bodies are huge test tubes and to be careful of the chemicals you introduce to them. Drugs are uncontrollable--not willing to take that chance no matter the situation. I hope many of them remembered my analogy and refrained from ' doing drugs' when down

I can’t relate to using mind altering drugs. I do think most people use distractions like social media, TV, music,etc.