Dr. Peter Blake

Biography

Peter Blake is an Associate Professor in the College of Arts and Sciences at Boston University, specializing in Psychological and Brain Sciences. He received his PhD in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard University, where he also earned his EdD and MEd degrees. His research primarily focuses on social cognitive development, specifically the foundational aspects of human life such as cooperation, fairness, and ownership among children. Blake investigates cognitive and social processes that underpin children's interactions with material goods and explores how they manage resources. His work is characterized by experimental approaches grounded in game theory, through which he examines children's understanding of sharing and competition in resource allocation. Currently, he is extending his projects to assess the impact of cultural variables on cooperation in children, appearing as the Director of the Child Development Labs at Boston Medical Center. In the past, he has held postdoctoral positions and has collaborated with various disciplines including game theorists, anthropologists, and developmental psychologists to enhance the understanding of cooperation. Blake's contributions to the field are notable, including multiple grants and publications that illustrate his engagement with pressing questions in child development.

Research Interests