Consciousness and our place in the universe, with Dr Adam Barrett, Wed 9 Sept

The science of consciousness and our place in the universe, with Dr Adam Barrett, Wednesday 9 September, 7:30pm at Wagner Hall

In this talk, Adam explains two major insights that science provides about our place in the universe. The first of these is ‘panpsychism’ – consciousness is a fundamental property of matter, and we’re all in some sense part of the same being. After arguing for this, there follows a discussion on where we’re at in understanding what is the fundamental physical substrate of consciousness, via an accessible account of the much-misunderstood integrated information theory. The second insight is ‘eternalism’ – that past, present and future exist equally. It is explained how this follows from Einstein’s theory of relativity. The talk concludes with a discussion on how these two insights can provide spiritual comfort, with knock-on benefits for mental health and society.

Dr Adam Barrett is Deputy Director of the Sussex Centre for Consciousness Science and an Associate Professor in Machine Learning and Data Science. He researches the neural basis of consciousness using mathematical and data science methods. This work is inspired by his early work in theoretical physics. He also sometimes works across disciplines and has worked on models of post-growth economics.

7:00pm Doors open, bar opens
7:30 Talk starts
8:15 approx Short break followed by Q+A.
9:00 Event ends

A reminder that Cafe Sci runs entirely on donations. There is no admission charge so that all are welcome to come along. It is much appreciated if you can make a donation to help us cover our costs. We accept cards and cash. Thanks for your support.
Wagner Hall is on West Street, 200 m down from the Clock Tower and adjoining the Bright Helm pub. Lots of buses stop nearby and the hall is next to the Churchill Square red car park.