How the Brain Makes You - Collective Intelligence and Computation by Neural Circuits

Explore the fascinating world of neuroscience in this 1 hour 35 minute lecture by Vijay Balasubramanian from the University of Pennsylvania and Santa Fe Institute. Delve into the intricate workings of the human brain, consisting of 100 billion neurons connected by 100 trillion synapses. Discover how these simple electrical devices, similar in concept to transistors or diodes in silicon microchips, collectively create the intelligent mind through their ephemeral voltage pulses. Examine current theories on how this remarkable transformation occurs, from basic neural activity to complex cognitive functions such as perception, action, memory, and imagination. Gain insights into the "mysterious butterflies of the soul" as described by neuroscience pioneer Ramon y Cajal, and uncover potential keys to unlocking the secrets of the mind.