Explore the fascinating world of hallucinations in this 75-minute World Science Festival talk featuring renowned neurologist Oliver Sacks and journalist John Hockenberry. Delve into the cultural history and contemporary science of hallucinatory experiences, including Sacks' personal insights from his early psychedelic explorations. Learn about various types of hallucinations, their potential evolutionary advantages, and their relationship to brain function. Discover intriguing topics such as migraine auras, Anton syndrome, and the connection between hallucinations and dreams. Engage with thought-provoking questions about the ethics of treating hallucinations and the demonization of hallucinogenic substances. Gain a deeper understanding of the complex and surreal nature of the human mind through this enlightening discussion.
Overview
Syllabus
True Stories of Hallucinations
John Hockenberry's Introduction
Welcome Oliver Sacks
What do we think a hallucination is in the brain?
Hallucinations are real due to location in the brain?
Are hallucinations a dysfunction?
The aura period of a migraine.
What is Anton syndrome?
What about hallucinations that are not visible?
A shot of amphetamine with an LSD chaser and a spot of cannabis.
What have observations of hallucinations taught you?
Is there an evolutionary advantage to being able to hallucinate?
Neil DeGrasse Tyson asks... If we could cure hallucinations should we?
What are your thoughts on the demonetization of hallucinogenic substances?
Where do we go from here with the study of hallucinations?
Synthesia vs hallucinations.
How do hallucinations relate to dreaming?
Taught by
World Science Festival
