Susan Blackmore

Date of Birth: July 29, 1951

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Biography

Susan Blackmore is a distinguished British writer, lecturer, and researcher known for her work in the fields of consciousness, memetics, and the paranormal. Born in London, England, she developed an early interest in science and psychology, leading her to pursue a degree in psychology and physiology from St Hilda’s College, Oxford. She later completed a PhD in parapsychology from the University of Surrey, where her initial research focused on the study of out-of-body experiences. Throughout her career, Blackmore has authored numerous books and articles that have contributed significantly to the understanding of human consciousness and cultural evolution. Her most notable work, “The Meme Machine,” published in 1999, explores the concept of memes—ideas, behaviors, or styles that spread from person to person within a culture. This book has been influential in both popularizing memetics and advancing the field. A former believer in the paranormal, Blackmore’s scientific investigations led her to adopt a skeptical stance regarding such phenomena. She has been an outspoken critic of pseudoscience and has written extensively on the subject. In addition to her writing, she is a sought-after speaker and has appeared on various television and radio programs to discuss her work. Susan Blackmore is also a visiting professor at the University of Plymouth, where she continues to conduct research and teach. Her contributions to science and literature have earned her a place among the most respected voices in her fields of expertise.

5 Interesting Facts about Susan Blackmore

1. Susan Blackmore completed her PhD in parapsychology at the University of Surrey, focusing on out-of-body experiences.

2. She is the author of “The Meme Machine,” a seminal work in the field of memetics.

3. Blackmore originally believed in the paranormal but became a skeptic after extensive scientific research.

4. She has been a visiting professor at the University of Plymouth.

5. Susan Blackmore has practiced Zen Buddhism for many years, which influences her views on consciousness.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Susan Blackmore

1. “Memes are the new replicators. They are not physical, but they are just as real as genes.”

2. “The idea that we are not in control of our thoughts and actions is deeply unsettling to many people, but it is a view that is increasingly supported by scientific evidence.”

3. “To understand consciousness, we need to look at the brain and how it processes information.”

4. “Skepticism is not about debunking; it’s about finding out the truth.”

5. “Our sense of self is just another complex memeplex, a set of memes that reinforce each other.”