Why can humans alone invent? In this lecture, psychologist and world renowned autism expert Simon Baron-Cohen puts forward a bold new theory: because we can identify patterns, specifically if-and-then patterns. Simon argues that the genes for this unique ability overlap with the genes for autism and have driven human progress for 70,000 years.

From the first musical instruments to the agricultural, industrial, and digital revolutions, in this Blackham Lecture, Pattern Seekers, based on new book of the same name, Simon Baron-Cohen links one of our greatest human strengths with a condition that is so often misunderstood and challenges us to think differently about those of us who think differently.

About Professor Simon Baron-Cohen

Simon Baron-Cohen is Professor at Cambridge University in the fields of psychology and psychiatry. He is also the Director of the Autism Research Centre there. He has carried out research into social neuroscience over a 20-year career. His popular science book The Essential Difference (Penguin, 2003) has been translated in over a dozen languages.

About the Blackham Lecture

The Blackham Lecture traditionally explores an aspect of education, either philosophical, practical, or social, that relates to humanism. The Blackham medallist has made a significant contribution in one of these fields.

The lecture and medal are named for the educationist and activist Harold Blackham, first executive director of Humanists UK and first general secretary of Humanists International.