How to Protect Minds from Mis & Dis-information: The Science of Mental Immunity
Details
This month's Humanist Community Gathering will feature Andy Norman, public philosopher, outspoken humanist, and author of the recently published book, "Mental Immunity."
Join us at 5:30 PM for a special reception with light sandwiches, hors d'oeuvres, and drinks to welcome Dr. Norman from Carnegie Mellon University. Attendees can enter a drawing to win a signed copy of "Mental Immunity." Those who aren't so lucky can purchase the book for $24 (several bucks less than Amazon), so bring cash or a check. The program will begin at 6:30 PM. Following the presentation, stay for Q & A, more socializing, and the opportunity to have Andy sign your copy of his book.
While most of us now have had our vaccinations and boosters for Covid-19, unfortunately, we are still vulnerable to a different kind of disease, one that threatens our mental, rather than our physical, well-being. Conspiracy theories, evidence-defying ideologies, garden-variety bad ideas, and other “mind-parasites” compromise our belief systems and jeopardize our individual and collective health.
In this presentation, Andy will argue that minds and cultures have immune systems analogous to the biological systems protecting us from disease. With lessons from the science of mental immunity, Andy will focus on how we can protect our minds from mis and dis-information.
Andy Norman directs the Humanism Initiative at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, where he has also taught philosophy. In addition to publishing in peer-reviewed academic journals, Andy is a regular contributor to The Humanist and Free Inquiry, secularist publications that feature his work on reason, faith, and the foundations of morality.
We will also stream the event live on YouTube. Follow this link . (Ignore the date listed. It is wrong. The event will begin streaming at 6:30pm on Friday, April 29th.)
HumanistsMN policy requires that all attendees at our in-person events be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
This event is sponsored by HumanistsMN. If you are not already a member, please consider joining to help us cover our costs and build the humanist movement. Not ready to join? Donations are gratefully accepted! Donate or join at https://humanistsmn.org/.