Are Humans Unique? A neuroscientific exploration of mind, soul and consciousness
Are Humans Unique? is the topic of the 2025 Annual Public Lecture by Heriot-Watt University Chaplaincy in Edinburgh and delivered by Dr Sharon Dirckx.
About Are Humans Unique? A neuroscientific exploration of mind, soul and consciousness
The free event will use neuroscience to explore the relationship between faith and science.
The lecture will be delivered by Dr Sharon Dirckx, an author, international speaker and former brain imaging scientist.
Dr Dirckx studied biochemistry before moving into research in the area of Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging [FMRI], a type of scanning that enables scientists to look inside the brain – without cutting into it – at its structure and activity, in all kinds of situations.
“I became fascinated with this technique and studied for a PhD at the University of Cambridge, before conducting postdoctoral research into the brain networks involved in human cocaine abuse at the Medical College of Wisconsin in the United States,” Dr Dirckx explained.
She describes her lecture at Heriot-Watt University Chaplaincy as a ‘neuroscientific exploration of mind, soul and consciousness.’
“I’ll consider different philosophical and scientific approaches to the essence of humanity,” she said. “By taking a materialist approach to mind, soul and consciousness, I’ll show that matter is not all you need to explain everything about understanding humans. I’ll also show how clinical neuroscience and theological considerations create a complex picture.”
Each year, the Chaplaincy’s Annual Public Lecture explores the relationship between science and faith through a current issue or scientific development. Are they mutually exclusive, or might they combine to offer deeper insights into the world as we know it?
The Reverend Jane Howitt, Chaplain of Heriot-Watt University, said: “We are delighted that Dr Dirckx is presenting our annual public lecture and look forward to hearing her insights into science and theology.”
The Chaplaincy on Heriot-Watt’s Edinburgh Campus exists to promote spiritual and social wellbeing. It is open to everyone – both students and staff – from all backgrounds and cultures. People of all faiths and no religious faith are welcome.
The lecture is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be served from 6.15pm.
This lecture will be interpreted into British Sign Language (BSL).
To attend this event in person, please register via Eventbrite by Thursday 30 January 2025:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/are-humans-unique-heriot-watt-chaplaincy-annual-public-lecture-tickets-1109134153109
Where possible we will update our listings to notify of cancelled, postponed and rescheduled events, however we STRONGLY ADVISE that you check with the venue/organiser in the first instance for updates.
All information (whether in text or photographs) is supplied in good faith but should not be relied upon as being a statement of representation or fact.GOT AN EVENT TO SHARE? It's free to post your events on What's On Edinburgh, click here to find out more!
Want to be the first to hear about what's happening in Edinburgh? Follow us on Facebook and join the What's On Scotland Group!Sponsored Links
Similar events you might like...
Beneath the Surface: King’s Gallery Short Talks
Join our team at the Palace of Holyroodhouse for weekly gallery talks as part of the exhibition Drawing the Italian Renaissance!
READ MORE
Information Lecture: Help and Healing on the Spiritual Path through the teaching of Bruno Groening
A lecture about spiritual healing and help through the teaching of Bruno Groening is taking place at The Open Door Community Centre, Edinburgh on various dates throughout the year.
READ MORE
Drawing the Italian Renaissance: Curator’s Introduction
Join exhibition curator Lauren Porter at The King's Gallery, Palace of Holyroodhouse as she discusses works from Drawing the Italian Renaissance!
READ MORE
Public Lecture by Sir Steven Cowley
Join the School of Physics and Astronomy at 50 George Square on Tuesday 6th January for a drinks reception followed by a lecture from Sir Steven Cowley!
READ MORE
Dan O’Neill: Snow Leopards In the Mountains of Kyrgyzstan
Follow Dan O'Neill as he leads an extreme conservation mission through the mountains of Kyrgyzstan and Mongolia, exploring snow leopard behavioural and spatial ecology using video camera traps.
READ MORE
The Psychology of Horror Movies
Discover the fascinating connections between horror films and the human mind, exploring themes of psychoanalysis, gender, and more at Assembly Roxy on Wednesday 21st January. Followed by a Q&A.
READ MORE
Derek Fabel: Nuclear Fallout Exposes Fake ‘Antique’ Whisky
The Scotch whisky industry faces a growing problem: fake vintage whiskies. Some bottles sold as rare single malts from the 1800s or early 1900s are actually much younger.
READ MORE
Justin Hawkins Rides Again... Again
Justin Hawkins brings his YouTube show “Justin Hawkins Rides Again” to The Queen's Hall Edinburgh on Saturday 24th January!
READ MORE
Celebrating Burns
Come along to Edinburgh Castle on 25th January to find out more about the bard and some of his works!
READ MORESponsored Links
Find other events in Edinburgh
Sponsored Links