NRSCS21
Writing about the Brain: Neuroscience and Storytelling
Neuroscience
BC
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