Society for the Study of Normal Man / Psychology

This collection is no longer held by Wellcome Collection and cannot be consulted here. It was returned to the British Psychological Society in September 2008 as it did not fit with current collecting criteria.

1951-1968

2 transfer boxes

Other number refers to the numbering system used by the previous owner, the British Psychological Society, prior to transfer to Wellcome in 2008.

Deposited in the library at Wellcome Collection by the British Psychological Society in September 2008. Decided in Sep 2011 (and agreed by Mike Maskill) it is to be returned to the BPS as not appropriate for our collections. Returned by AE on 17th May 2012. acc/0079

The Society for the Study of Normal Man was founded in 1951 by Francis C. Roles to carry on the work and teachings of the Russian esoteric philosopher and author P.D. Ouspensky (1878-1947). Its stated object was "promoting the Scientific Study of Normal Man on the basis of current advances in the physiology of the Nervous System and its functions by means of lectures, research and observation by people from their experience and interests in varied walks of life". In 1961 it changed its name to the Society for the Study of Normal Psychology, rephrasing its purpose as "studying the neurological structure and the psychological functions of man, and of applying knowledge so gained to the needs of people today so that they may achieve by practical endeavour and by development of their faculties a better understanding of themselves and the world around them". It is more commonly known as the Study Society. During the 1950s and 1960s, it undertook a number of activities such as organising study groups for acting, fencing, book-binding, sewing, art, photography and music during which members could make contributions to philosophical and scientific ideas by direct observation from their own experience. It also organised lectures by guest speakers on subjects within its field of interest and had a close arrangement with the British Association for the Advancement of Science for this purpose. Today the Society provides "practical ways of finding rest, stillness and meaning in the midst of our varied lives, benefiting both the individual and society. These include meditation, sacred dance and chanting." It studies "non-dual philosophy: a simple system of knowledge that lies behind the world's major philosophies and religions."

Held by SSNM's solicitors Farrer & Co London. Transfer to John Street unknown.

Compiled by the Cataloguing Project Archivist at the British Psychological Society History of Psychology Centre, with minor editing by Wellcome staff.

Deaccessioned and no longer held by Wellcome Collection.