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
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