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Bruce Hood

Professor at University of Bristol

Bruce Hood is a prominent Canadian-born British experimental psychologist and philosopher, currently serving as a Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Bristol. He specializes in developmental cognitive neuroscience and is known for his extensive research on cognitive development, intuitive theories, self-identity, and the psychological underpinnings of supernatural beliefs and magical thinking.

Educational Background

  • Undergraduate Studies: Psychology
  • Master's Degrees: M.A. and M.Phil. from the University of Dundee
  • Ph.D.: University of Cambridge (1991), focusing on the visual development of infants

Academic Career

Hood has held prestigious positions throughout his career, including:

  • Visiting Professor at MIT
  • Associate Professor at Harvard University
  • Director of the Bristol Cognitive Development Centre at the University of Bristol

Research Interests

His research encompasses various areas, including:

  • The science of happiness and its impact on mental well-being
  • Cognitive development from a neuroscience perspective
  • Inhibitory control and spatial representation in children
  • The origins of adult magical reasoning stemming from childhood intuitions

Notable Contributions

Hood is recognized for his innovative course, the Science of Happiness, which he has been teaching since 2018. This course aims to enhance students' understanding of mental well-being through psychological, social, and philosophical lenses. He has authored several popular science books, such as:

  • Possessed
  • The Self Illusion
  • Supersense
  • The Science of Happiness

Awards and Recognition

His contributions to psychology have earned him numerous accolades, including:

  • Sloan Fellowship in neuroscience
  • Young Investigator Award from the International Society for Infant Studies
  • Public Engagement and Media Award from the British Psychological Society

Public Engagement

Hood is also known for his engaging public lectures and media appearances, including presenting the Royal Institution Christmas Lectures in 2011. He actively participates in discussions about the intersection of psychology and everyday life, emphasizing the importance of understanding human happiness.

In summary, Bruce Hood is a distinguished figure in developmental psychology, contributing significantly to both academic research and public understanding of psychological concepts related to happiness and cognitive development.

Highlights

Feb 6 · twitter

No. 8 in the Heathrow charts! https://t.co/2fwYwTWFz8

No. 8 in the Heathrow charts! https://t.co/2fwYwTWFz8
Mar 8 · linkedin

Related Questions

What are some key findings from Bruce Hood's research on the science of happiness?
How does Bruce Hood's work on cognitive development contribute to our understanding of adult behavior?
What are the main themes in Bruce Hood's book "The Self Illusion"?
Can you explain Bruce Hood's concept of "naïve theories" in developmental psychology?
What are some practical tips for increasing happiness based on Bruce Hood's research?
Bruce Hood
Bruce Hood, photo 1
Bruce Hood, photo 2
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Location

Bristol, England, United Kingdom