The Royal Society of New South Wales, in collaboration with Australia's Learned Academies, invites you to delve into the captivating mysteries of the 21st-century brain.
This year’s Annual Forum carries the theme "Our 21st Century Brain" and promises to be an intellectually enriching journey that takes us deep into the intricate workings of our most complex organ.
Where?
While the event primarily unfolds at the stately Government House Sydney, the Royal Society offers a unique opportunity for regional attendees. You can join the event via live stream at the UNE Smart Region Incubator (SRI) locations in Moree, Tamworth, and Armidale, OR, you can stream in your home or office.
The Context:
The brain serves as the core of our being, influencing our instincts, needs, and responses to the world. It is the epicenter of compassion, reason, and creativity as reflected in art, science, and our daily lives.
However, the same brain can be the source of suffering, dysfunction, and malice. Despite our ongoing pursuit of progress and enlightenment, we find ourselves entangled in the timeless challenges of tribalism, racism, dehumanization, and the exclusion of 'outsiders.' Our pursuit of knowledge and growth continues to wrestle with the complex societal issues of our times: global security, climate change, demographic shifts, resource management, information overload, and the rise of artificial intelligence.
These challenges, while not new, have reached a scale and complexity that strain our individual and collective capacity to respond effectively. Modern society, in many ways, stands on the precipice of its cognitive potential.
The Impact of Technology:
The 21st century has brought forth profound shifts that redefine the context of our brains. Information technology platforms, artificial intelligence, and rapid technological advances have transformed the way we think, connect, and respond. Moreover, diseases of the brain have grown in prevalence, with mental health challenges impacting individuals across their lifespan.
The Focus:
This year's Annual Forum is more than an exploration; it's a collective endeavor to confront these challenges head-on. We’ll dive into the significant strides made in understanding brain function and development, fueled by research into genetic, environmental, and social factors. The goal of the event is to leverage this knowledge to craft sustainable and equitable solutions that reflect both scientific understanding and a commitment to a better future.
‘Our 21st Century Brain’ will be lived stream in Armidale @NOVA, Moree @ Social Co. House and in Tamworth @ UNE.
You’re welcome to join us on the day - or you can stream where’s most convenient for you via the registration link below.