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NRSCS21

Writing about the Brain: Neuroscience and Storytelling

Subject code

NRSC

Course Number

S21

Department(s)

Instructor(s)

J. Castro

Course Long Title

Writing about the Brain: Neuroscience and Storytelling

Description

In this course, students "think about our thinking about the brain.” They consider how scientific findings are used to create stories about human meaning and purpose, and how science itself is shaped by the impulse to find and create meaning. They study four areas of neuroscience that are routinely in popular media: studies of "free will," animal intelligence, mental illness and brain injury, and "split brains." Students critique and analyze popular neuroscience media, and craft their own popular-science narratives in the form of essays, blog posts, podcasts, and interviews. Recommended background: Familiarity with fundamental neuroscience concepts (neurons, synapses, the localization of function to particular brain areas) is helpful, but not required.

Writing Credit

No writing credit

INDS Program Relationship

IDNS - NRSC Program