How Real is your Reality?
The Royal Institution of Great Britain , 21 Albemarle Street , London, W1S 4BS
How Real is your Reality?
21 Albemarle Street , London, W1S 4BS
Description
Imagine your entire life, everything you see, hear, and feel, as a first-person movie. Your brain is the director, producer, and cinema all in one, and you’re the only person in the audience! But here’s the big question: is the movie your brain is showing you real? Is it a live recording or a Hollywood production? The things we see around us are real...most of the time. But sometimes, your brain likes to play tricks on you. Have you ever seen a face in the clouds or been fooled by an illusion or a magic trick? They aren’t just silly mistakes; they are amazing clues that show us how the brain creates our personal movie. Illusions teach us that your brain isn't just a camera recording the world.
In this fun, interactive talk, cognitive neuroscientist Pieter Barkema will explore mind-boggling illusions that will trick your eyes and boggle your mind. We'll look at how learning a new fact can instantly change the way you see something right in front of you, what illusions work even when you know the secret and real-life displays that show these mistakes are not just computer tricks.
How To Get Your Tickets
1. Book your desired number of tickets and await an email from us confirming your order. This is NOT a ticket.
2. Present your confirmation on arrival at the venue. Ensure that you take personal ID with you or you may be turned away
Pricing Information
• You can choose a Free Ticket or a Free Ticket with £5 Donation - all £5 goes straight to the Royal Institution to continue their excellent scientific education work. Both tickets allow the same entry to the event.
• No further payment applies beyond the TFG booking fee
Additional Information
• This is a family show, aimed at children aged 12 and under
• For further event information please visit here
Accessibility Information
• Please note: We recommend all access bookings are made directly through the event organiser, however, we are here to assist where possible. Please get in touch with us prior to booking if you have access requirements. For accessibility information please visit here
Genre
Dates & times
Saturday, 13 Sep 2025 2:00pm to 3:15pm
Important information - please read
Imagine your entire life, everything you see, hear, and feel, as a first-person movie. Your brain is the director, producer, and cinema all in one, and you’re the only person in the audience! But here’s the big question: is the movie your brain is showing you real? Is it a live recording or a Hollywood production? The things we see around us are real...most of the time. But sometimes, your brain likes to play tricks on you. Have you ever seen a face in the clouds or been fooled by an illusion or a magic trick? They aren’t just silly mistakes; they are amazing clues that show us how the brain creates our personal movie. Illusions teach us that your brain isn't just a camera recording the world.
In this fun, interactive talk, cognitive neuroscientist Pieter Barkema will explore mind-boggling illusions that will trick your eyes and boggle your mind. We'll look at how learning a new fact can instantly change the way you see something right in front of you, what illusions work even when you know the secret and real-life displays that show these mistakes are not just computer tricks.
How To Get Your Tickets
1. Book your desired number of tickets and await an email from us confirming your order. This is NOT a ticket.
2. Present your confirmation on arrival at the venue. Ensure that you take personal ID with you or you may be turned away
Pricing Information
• You can choose a Free Ticket or a Free Ticket with £5 Donation - all £5 goes straight to the Royal Institution to continue their excellent scientific education work. Both tickets allow the same entry to the event.
• No further payment applies beyond the TFG booking fee
Additional Information
• This is a family show, aimed at children aged 12 and under
• For further event information please visit here
Accessibility Information
• Please note: We recommend all access bookings are made directly through the event organiser, however, we are here to assist where possible. Please get in touch with us prior to booking if you have access requirements. For accessibility information please visit here
Genre
Tickets
You may purchase a maximum of 4 tickets for this event.Location
The Royal Institution of Great Britain
21 Albemarle Street
London
W1S 4BS