The Englishman – Memoirs of a Psychobiologist

In “The Englishman: Memoirs of a Psychobiologist”, John Staddon is the central figure of this autobiographical memoir. It recounts his personal and professional journey, including his early life in wartime London, experiences in colonial Africa, his academic struggles and eventual move to the United States and graduate studies that led him to Harvard.

While the book focuses primarily on Staddon’s own experiences, it also references influential individuals in psychology and biology, including B.F. Skinner, who was a major influence on Staddon’s scientific thinking, particularly in behaviorism. Also important was Charles Darwin whose evolutionary theory shaped Staddon’s approach to biology and psychology. Additionally, the memoir includes anecdotes about colleagues, mentors, and students throughout his academic career, though their names and roles may vary in prominence.