The Secret Science of Magic and Illusion

In his David Attenborough Award Lecture, Professor Wiseman will take a deep dive into secret world of magic and illusion. Come along and see some of the world’s great optical illusions, explore the secret psychology of magic, find out why learning to perform the impossible is good for you, and discover how to transform a tea towel into a chicken. An entertaining and interactive journey into the fascinating world of mystery and magic.

The David Attenborough Award 2023 was given to Professor Richard Wiseman for his sustained and innovative public engagement with the psychology of magic and the nature of deception, and his exposure of pseudo-science through multiple routes including books, videos and festivals.

Psychologist Richard Wiseman holds Britain’s first Professorship in the Public Understanding of Psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He became fascinated by magic and illusion at an early age, is a member of the prestigious Inner Magic Circle, and has created illusion-based YouTube clips that have attracted over 500 million views.

The Royal Society David Attenborough Award and Lecture is awarded annually to an individual for outstanding public engagement with science. The award, open to everyone, recognises high quality public engagement activities and complements the Michael Faraday Prize and Lecture. The award is named after the United Kingdom’s best-loved naturalist and broadcaster, and honorary Fellow of the Royal Society, David Attenborough. The medal is of silver gilt, is awarded annually and is accompanied by a gift of £2,500.

• Registration on Eventbrite is highly recommended and guarantees entry.
• Those without a ticket will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

• The lecture will take place in-person at the Royal Society.
• Doors will open to the public at 6.10pm BST.
• Travel and accessibility information.
• Live subtitles will be available in-person.

For all enquiries, please contact [email protected].

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Royal Society, 6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London, United Kingdom