Members Ajmme Kajros

Nov 4 2007: This talk is interesting in the sense that it makes obvious the gap between the world and our perception. Dan shows that in the context of visual 'tricks', but our consciousness is shaped by social and cultural boundaries also. I think that while is true that our "raw" perception has been moulded by evolutionary imperatives, the influence of the social ones, its not to be underestimated given the importance of the language in our interpretation of the world, and language is a social product.

As the lenguage is constantly transformed by communication needs, the brain is shaped by survival needs. I believe that the understanding of the purpose of the machine, might be enlightening in the comprehension of its functioning (this is, if the mechanistic model of the mind appeals to you).

I've found this conference stimulating, as Dan shows clearly the fact that we don't understand our own consciousness. Its an excellent reminder of our ignorance of ourselves.