Susan Blackmore

Susan Blackmore is a British academic and writer known for her work in consciousness studies, memetics, and parapsychology. Her most influential work, "The Meme Machine" (1999), helped popularize and expand upon Richard Dawkins' concept of memes. Originally starting her career investigating paranormal phenomena, Blackmore's research led her to become skeptical of paranormal claims. She transitioned to studying consciousness and memetics, becoming a visiting professor at the University of Plymouth and contributing regularly to academic and public discourse through various media outlets. Blackmore's academic background includes degrees from St Hilda's College, Oxford, and the University of Surrey, where she completed her PhD in parapsychology. Her research and writing have covered diverse topics including consciousness, meditation, and the theory of mind, publishing over 40 books and numerous scholarly articles. Since leaving her position at the University of the West of England in 2001, Blackmore has worked as a freelance writer and lecturer, continuing to contribute to scientific discussions through books, articles, and media appearances. Her work consistently challenges conventional thinking about consciousness and cultural evolution.

Readers value Blackmore's ability to explain complex ideas about consciousness and memes in accessible language. Her book "The Meme Machine" receives particular attention for translating academic concepts for general audiences. Positive reviews highlight: - Clear explanations of difficult concepts - Integration of personal experiences with scientific research - Thorough examination of evidence for/against paranormal claims - Honest discussion of changing her views based on research Common criticisms include: - Repetitive arguments in longer works - Over-reliance on personal anecdotes - Some readers find her writing style dry - Claims about consciousness seen as too reductionist by some Ratings across platforms: The Meme Machine: 3.9/5 on Goodreads (2,800+ ratings) Consciousness: An Introduction: 3.8/5 on Goodreads (400+ ratings) Amazon reviews average 4.0/5 across her books One reader noted: "She has a gift for making complex theories understandable without oversimplifying." Another criticized: "Too much focus on personal experiences rather than hard data."

The Meme Machine (1999) An exploration of memetics that examines how ideas, behaviors, and cultural practices replicate and evolve through human societies, building on Richard Dawkins' concept of memes.

Zen and the Art of Consciousness (2011) A detailed examination of consciousness through the lens of Zen meditation practice, combining personal experience with scientific analysis.

Consciousness: An Introduction (2003) A comprehensive textbook covering major theories and research in consciousness studies, from philosophical perspectives to neuroscientific findings.

Conversations on Consciousness (2005) A collection of interviews with leading scientists and philosophers about the nature of consciousness and the mind-body problem.

Ten Zen Questions (2009) An investigation of fundamental questions about consciousness and self through Zen meditation exercises and scientific analysis.

Seeing Myself: The New Science of Out-of-Body Experiences (2017) A scientific examination of out-of-body experiences, combining research findings with personal accounts and theoretical frameworks.

A Very Short Introduction to Consciousness (2005) A concise overview of consciousness studies, covering key concepts, theories, and debates in the field.

Daniel Dennett Explores consciousness and evolution of minds through a materialist lens, similar to Blackmore's approach to explaining consciousness. His work on consciousness as an emergent phenomenon aligns with Blackmore's investigations into the nature of self and awareness.

Richard Dawkins Developed the original concept of memes that Blackmore expanded upon in her work. His focus on evolutionary biology and cultural transmission provides the foundation for many of Blackmore's key ideas about how information spreads through societies.

Douglas Hofstadter Examines consciousness through cognitive science and explores how self-reference creates consciousness. His analysis of how patterns and symbols create meaning connects with Blackmore's work on consciousness and cultural replication.

Patricia Churchland Approaches consciousness and mind through neurophilosophy, combining scientific evidence with philosophical inquiry. Her work on how the brain creates consciousness parallels Blackmore's investigations into the nature of consciousness and self.

Andy Clark Investigates extended mind theory and how consciousness relates to environment and technology. His research on how minds extend beyond biological boundaries complements Blackmore's work on consciousness and cultural evolution.