3D illustration of brain nervous system

“The Mind-Body Connection Part II: Is the Evolution of Perception Computational?”

Michael Lewicki, associate professor of electrical engineering, and Ken Loparo, the Nord Professor of Engineering, will give the next Origins Science Scholars lecture.

They will present “The Mind-Body Connection Part I: Is the Evolution of Perception Computational?” Tuesday, Nov. 21, at 5:30 p.m. in the Tinkham Veale University Center.

Talk details

The brain’s interpretation of sensory information results in representation and understanding of the environment. Perception isn’t passive, but rather, it’s shaped by learning, memory, expectation and attention. Its evolution is the subject of considerable controversy. Can theories of optimality explain the codes biological systems use? Lewicki will argue that computational principles explain how neural codes are optimally adapted to their sensory environment. Further, it is possible to extend these theories to provide functional theories for higher-level aspects of perception.

Program schedule:

  • 5:30 p.m.: Coffee and sign-in
  • 6 to 7 p.m.: Lectures
  • 7 to 7:30p.m.: Dinner with faculty and fellows
  • 7:30p.m.: Q&A and dessert

Registration is $40 for members and $48 for nonmembers.

Parking is included.

Register for this event.

Series details

Presented by Siegal Lifelong Learning and the Institute of Science Origins, the Origins Science Scholars Program series engages community members with one another and with leading scholars to investigate rapidly developing areas of origins science. Each evening begins with a presentation from a world-class researcher, followed by complimentary dinner and open discussion among all the participants.

The Mind-Body Connection series is also sponsored by the Case Western Reserve University Emeriti Academy, an organization administered through the CWRU Office of the Provost, which is intended to foster closer continuing relationships with emeriti faculty after they retire from full-time employment.