Susan Blackmore

Susan Blackmore is a British writer, lecturer, and broadcaster who is known for her work on consciousness, memetics, and evolutionary psychology. Here are the key points from her biography:

Early Life and Education: Susan Jane Blackmore was born on July 29, 1951, in London, England. She studied psychology and physiology at St. Hilda’s College, Oxford University, where she graduated with a BA in Psychology in 1973. She later completed her PhD in Parapsychology at the University of Surrey in 1980, studying the psychology of meditation.

Research and Contributions: Blackmore has made significant contributions to the fields of consciousness studies, memetics (the study of memes), and evolutionary psychology. She is best known for her book “The Meme Machine” (1999), which explores the concept of memes as units of cultural evolution analogous to genes.

Parapsychology and Skepticism: Early in her career, Blackmore investigated paranormal phenomena and parapsychology. However, through her research and critical analysis, she became skeptical of paranormal claims and shifted her focus to scientifically rigorous explanations of consciousness and human behavior.

Consciousness Studies: Blackmore has written extensively about consciousness, exploring topics such as out-of-body experiences, near-death experiences, and the nature of self. She has proposed theories that challenge traditional views of consciousness, advocating for a more scientific and empirical approach to understanding subjective experiences.

Popular Science Writing: In addition to “The Meme Machine,” Blackmore has authored several other books and contributed to numerous academic journals and popular science publications. Her writing often bridges the gap between academic research and public understanding, making complex scientific ideas accessible to a wider audience.

Media and Public Engagement: Blackmore is a frequent speaker at conferences and events, where she discusses her research and ideas about consciousness and memetics. She has also appeared in various media outlets, including television and radio programs, to discuss her work and share insights into the nature of mind and consciousness.

Teaching and Academic Career: Susan Blackmore has held academic positions at universities in the UK and internationally, where she has taught and conducted research in psychology, consciousness studies, and memetics.

Susan Blackmore’s career reflects a commitment to exploring challenging questions about the nature of consciousness and the evolution of human culture through a scientific lens. Her interdisciplinary approach has influenced both academic research and public discourse on topics ranging from memes to the mysteries of human consciousness.