Mark Vernon is an author and journalist. He's written books on friendship, wellbeing, belief, science and the philosophy of the everyday. His articles and reviews on religious, philosophical and ethical themes have appeared in many newspapers and magazines, including the Guardian, Evening Standard and TLS. He has a degree in physics, theology and philosophy, regularly contributes to debates and festivals, and is a founding member of The School of Life in London. He played on the left wing for Socrates Wanderers in the 2010 Philosophers' Football Match.