Colin Blakemore: neuroscientist who explored the symbiotic relation between art and science

bmj;378/aug02_12/o1910/FAF1faCredit: David Hartley, ShutterstockColin Blakemore made an outstanding contribution to understanding of vision and neural plasticity—how brain cells reorganise themselves in response to the environment after birth and even in adulthood. His research focused on vision, early development of the brain, and conditions central to establishing the neuronal plasticity concept, including stroke and Huntington’s disease.ControversyBlakemore was a prominent target for animal rights activists but vowed that he would not be silenced. He later insisted: “The consequences of bowing to the threat of violence were unthinkable.”Over 20 years his commitment was unwavering despite letter bombs, letters laced with razor blades, and death threats. An anonymous telephone caller told his pregnant wife, Andrée: “I hope your baby is born deformed.” At one time his children were not allowed to leave the house unaccompanied. About 300 activists in balaclavas surrounded their home, smashing doors and windows.Public debate about animal research sometimes featured libels…
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