About the Author

A prominent psychologist and author, Susan Blackmore is celebrated for her research into consciousness, memetics, and the concept of self. Throughout her career, she has produced both academic papers and accessible books, always demonstrating a talent for making complex ideas understandable. In this volume, her style blends scientific thoroughness with an openness to provocative notions—for instance, the idea that the self may be an illusion. This theme permeates the book, prompting readers to examine their own preconceptions.

Overview

This compact guide offers a lucid and engaging exploration of one of humankind's greatest enigmas: consciousness. Authored by esteemed psychologist Susan Blackmore, the book condenses extensive research and ongoing debates into an easily digestible format. It serves as an ideal entry point for psychology students, philosophers, or any individual intrigued by the nature of conscious experience. As part of Oxford University Press's respected Very Short series, the volume provides expert insights without excessive complexity.

Who Should Read This Book?

This book is perfectly suited for:

• Students enrolled in psychology, philosophy, or cognitive science courses.
• General readers seeking a succinct yet comprehensive overview of consciousness studies.
• Anyone curious about the self and subjective experience.
• Fans of the Very Short series who appreciate its quality and brevity.

Because it requires no prior knowledge, it is accessible to newcomers while still offering depth for experienced readers.

Key Themes and Content

Despite its brevity, the book tackles many fundamental debates in consciousness research. Subjects include the hard problem of consciousness (the challenge of explaining subjective experience), the relationship between mind and brain, altered states of consciousness, and implications of artificial intelligence. Blackmore also examines the self and uses experiments, illusions, and philosophical arguments to illustrate key ideas. The structure progresses from foundational concepts to more provocative s, inviting readers to form their own opinions.

Why Choose This Edition?

This edition belongs to the dependable Very Short series, cherished for its high quality and concise format. At 4.3 by 6.8 inches and just a few ounces, it slips easily into a purse or backpack. Despite its small size, the content is rich and substantial, presented in a friendly, conversational style. Ideal for class preparation or personal enrichment, it offers a compact yet fulfilling reading experience.

What Makes This a Great to Consciousness?

What sets this book apart is how it handles complexity with clarity and engagement. Blackmore guides readers through the principal theories—from dualism to modern neuroscience—without losing them. Short enough to finish in one sitting, it still addresses core questions: What is consciousness? How does it connect to the brain? Is free will real? By offering diverse perspectives without bias, it fosters critical thought. Many readers have praised it as an excellent orientation tool, which explains its frequent use in consciousness studies courses.

Final Thoughts

True to its name, Consciousness: A Very Short provides a brief yet authoritative journey into a captivating topic. Blackmore's lively prose and readiness to question established ideas distinguish it from other introductory works. It serves as a superb starting point for further investigation into the secrets of consciousness. For anyone wanting a lucid, impartial, and stimulating synopsis, this book is the ideal choice.

This book is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional psychological advice.