Black, G. A. E. (2024). Memory within nature: A quantitative study of Rupert Sheldrake’s theory of morphic resonance [Unpublished Master’s thesis]. Alef Trust & Liverpool John Moores University.
Morphic resonance is a theory posed by Rupert Sheldrake which—within the context of learning—predicts that a skill should become easier to learn as more people practice it due to the pattern of learning existing within a morphic field, to which others can tune in. Several studies have empirically investigated this theory—some providing preliminary support for its predictions. The present research was split into two studies which both used the online game Wordle. It was hypothesised that as the day progressed, Wordle scores should improve because of resonance from earlier players. Study 1 used a questionnaire to collect participants’ Wordle scores and the time they completed the puzzle. A correlational analysis did not reveal a statistically significant correlation between these variables and thus did not support the hypothesis. Study 2 used WordleBot to collect data based on a random sample of all Wordle players. A two-sample z-test for proportions revealed a significant increase in the percentage of players solving the puzzle from morning to evening on the first two guesses, but a decrease on the latter three guesses. These results partially confirmed the hypothesis and might reflect the way in which conscious cognitive processes interact with morphic resonance.
