Lecture Notes - The Human Brain (Professor Nancy Camwisher)

Introduction

• Class begins promptly at 11:05.
• Professor Nancy Camwisher introduces herself.
• Overview of the day's agenda:
  • Brief story (about 10 minutes).
  • Discuss the reasons for studying the human brain.
  • Cover course mechanics and grading details.

Story Time

• Professor shares a true story related to a friend named Bob.
• The story involves Bob experiencing a medical emergency while staying at the professor's house.
• Themes in the story:
  • Nature of the human mind and organization of the brain.
  • Recovery after brain damage.
  • Resilience, privilege, and expertise in Cambridge society.

Incident Details

• Bob was preparing for a conference when he collapsed.
• EMTs found no immediate issues and suggested to go to the ER.
• Tests at Mount Auburn Hospital did not reveal any problems initially.
• Professor had concerns about Bob's brain due to previous signs of navigational deficits.

Realization

• Professor recalls worrying about Bob's brain due to previous indications of navigation issues.
• Examples of Bob’s navigational difficulties shared:
  • Directions confusion.
  • Getting lost in familiar places.
• The episode leads to the discovery of a brain tumor (meningioma) on a scan.

Themes Derived from the Story

1. Structure of the Brain
   • Brain has specific regions that serve different functions.
2. Brain Damage and Recovery
   • Specific mental abilities can be lost without affecting overall IQ.
3. Research Implications
   • Understanding brain function can lead to better scientific inquiry about the mind.
4. Methods of Study
   • Various methodologies exist to study brain functions, from behavioral observations to imaging techniques.

Why Study the Human Brain?

1. Self-Understanding
   • The brain is central to identity and consciousness.
2. Limits of Knowledge
   • Understanding the mind helps in evaluating the limits of human knowledge.
3. Advancements in AI
   • Insights from brain studies can help improve AI technologies.
4. Intellectual Quest
   • Understanding the brain is considered a monumental intellectual challenge.

How to Study the Human Brain

• Different levels of organization in the brain can be studied:
  • Molecules, neurons, circuits, and brain regions.
• The course will focus on how the brain gives rise to the mind through various mental functions.

Methods of Study

• Cognitive Science:
  • Psychophysics, neuropsychology, fMRI, EEG, and MEG.
• The course will cover various cognitive functions, including perception, language, navigation, and more.

Course Structure

• The course will begin with basic neuroanatomy and then delve into various cognitive functions, their brain bases, and methodologies.
• Focus will also be on understanding current research papers in the field.

Grading and Assignments

• Midterm: 25%
• Final: 25%
• Weekly reading assignments and papers.
• Quizzes to ensure comprehension of material.
• Designing an experiment assignment towards the end of the course.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to engage with the material and understand the complexities of studying the human brain.
• Reminder to communicate any concerns or questions regarding the course.