What Are We Really Seeing? How Our Brains Manipulate the Visual World
November 19, 7-9 PM - Doors open at 6 PM
Advance tickets recommended - $5 suggested donation.
When we open our eyes, are we perceiving reality? Why do we fail to agree on the color of “The Dress” that went viral in 2015? Have you ever glanced at a ticking clock and noticed the second-hand suddenly freeze for a split second?
Neuroscience research suggests that the brain evolved to make rapid, best-guesses about the objects in our environment. Through stories and demonstrations, Dr. Mark Pitzer will discuss how our visual system highlights some objects, delete others, and alters our conscious awareness in an attempt to help us navigate our visual world.
Mark Pitzer, Ph.D. is a neuroscientist at the University of Portland. For the last 25 years he has worked to better understand and treat diseases of the brain, including Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases. Currently, his lab studies how developmental influences in the womb can alter the number of dopaminergic neurons involved in reward, movement and social behavior. Mark is also an award-winning teacher who uses the findings from the fields of learning and neuroscience to invoke enduring enthusiasm, curiosity and deep learning in his college students.
Zoom Option
If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch on zoom. You must register in advance using this link. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.