The Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences will welcome renowned neurologist Vilayanur S. Ramachandran, M.D., Ph.D., to NSU as part of the Distinguished Speakers Series. Ramachandran will present a talk titled “The Neurology of Human Nature” on Thursday, Mar. 24, at 7:00 p.m. in the Miniaci Performing Arts Center.
Ramachandran is best known for his work in the fields of psychophysics and behavioral neurology, as his experiments have left a profound impact on how scientists view the brain. He is currently the director of the Center for Brain and Cognition and professor in the Psychology Department and Neurosciences Program at the University of California—San Diego and adjunct professor of biology at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies.
Ramachandran’s work has focused on the study of visual perception using the methods of psychophysics and the study of neurological syndromes and autism. His experiments are known for their simplicity and the use of low-tech equipment to answer questions about how the brain functions.
His new book, The Tell-Tale Brain, offers insight into the evolution of the human brain and attempts to uncover why humans are capable of certain actions and feelings. Such topics covered in the book include the phenomenon of the “phantom limb,” when a patient can still feel the presence of a missing or amputated limb.
Ramachandran’s Distinguished Speakers Series lecture is free, but tickets are required for admission. Tickets will be available to Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences students beginning Monday, Mar. 14. All NSU students, faculty, and staff members may pick up tickets beginning Monday, Mar. 21.
Tickets can be picked up in the college’s Office of the Dean, located in the Mailman-Hollywood Building, second floor. Please note: tickets are limited to two (2) per person and an NSU ID card is required. For more information, call (954) 262-8236 or visit www.fcas.nova.edu/arts/distinguished_speakers_series.