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Friday 13 May 2016, 17:45-19:10
The Invention of Consciousness
- đ¤ Speaker: Professor Nicholas Humphrey, LSE, New College of the Humanities, Darwin College đ Website
- đ Date & Time: Friday 13 May 2016, 17:45 - 19:10
- đ Venue: Wolfson College, Gatsby Room
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Dr Antonio M. M. Rodrigues
Abstract
In English we use the word “invention” in two ways. First, to mean a new device or process developed by experimentation, and designed to fulfill a practical goal. Second, to mean a mental fabrication, especially a falsehood, developed by art, and designed to please or persuade. In this talk I’ll argue that human consciousness is an invention in both respects. First, it is a cognitive faculty, evolved by natural selection, designed to help us make sense of ourselves and our surroundings. But then, second, it is a fantasy, conjured up by the brain, designed to change the value we place on our existence.
Series This talk is part of the Wolfson College Science Society series.
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