New Books Network Peter Lamont, "Radical Thinking: How to See the Bigger Picture" (Swift Press, 2024)
Sep 7, 2025
Peter Lamont, a Professor of History and Theory of Psychology at the University of Edinburgh and former magician, discusses the essence of radical thinking. He explores how our local experiences shape global perspectives and the clash between traditional beliefs and emerging ideas, like the overlooked role of geology in history. Lamont also addresses the complexity of commemorating controversial historical figures, advocating for mindfulness and diverse viewpoints to expand understanding. His insights encourage listeners to critically engage with the world around them.
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Magician Turned Academic
- Peter Lamont started as a working magician while studying history and later turned that interest into an academic career in the psychology of magic.
- His practical magic work led him to research topics like belief, wonder, and critical thinking.
Process Over Verdicts
- Lamont reframed critical thinking from 'what to think' to 'how to think' and called it radical thinking focused on process over outcomes.
- He turned a university course into a book to teach how we create worldviews from local perspectives.
Sherlock Holmes' Real Inspiration
- Arthur Conan Doyle modelled Sherlock Holmes on surgeon Joseph Bell, famed for reading people from appearances and habits.
- Bell himself felt Doyle exaggerated those abilities when he later read the Holmes stories.
