Dr. Rupert Sheldrake Biography – Skeptiko – Science at the Tipping Point

Rupert Sheldrake

Alfred Rupert Sheldrake, born on June 28, 1942, in Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, England, is a renowned figure in the field of parapsychology. Sheldrake’s academic journey began at Clare College, Cambridge, where he studied biology and biochemistry, followed by a fellowship at Harvard University to study the philosophy and history of science. He returned to Cambridge to earn a PhD in biochemistry, focusing on plant development and plant hormones.

Sheldrake’s career took a unique turn as he delved into the study of morphic resonance, a concept he proposed that suggests a form of inherent memory in nature. This idea, though controversial and often criticized as pseudoscience, has sparked significant debate and interest in the scientific community. His work extends to paranormal subjects like precognition and telepathy, earning him a reputation as a New Age author.

Throughout his career, Sheldrake has worked in various capacities, including a researcher at the Royal Society, a plant physiologist in India, and a director of the Perrott-Warrick Project for psychical research. He has also been a visiting professor at the Graduate Institute in Connecticut and a fellow of the Institute of Noetic Sciences in California.

Sheldrake’s contributions to literature include several books, such as “A New Science of Life” and “The Presence of the Past,” where he explores his theories in depth. His works have been met with mixed reviews, ranging from intrigue and support to criticism and skepticism.

Despite the controversy surrounding his theories, Sheldrake’s influence in the realms of science and spirituality is undeniable. He continues to challenge conventional scientific thought, advocating for a more inclusive and open-minded approach to understanding the mysteries of the natural world.