The Maternal Imprint: Evolution of Heredity and Maternal-Fetal Effects

Explore the evolution of scientific understanding regarding maternal influence on offspring development in this thought-provoking lecture. Delve into the historical shift from dismissing prenatal effects to recognizing the profound impact of a woman's experiences, behaviors, and physiology on her child's traits. Join Sarah Richardson, Professor of the History of Science and of Studies of Women, Gender, and Sexuality at Harvard University, as she discusses insights from her book "The Maternal Imprint." Engage in a stimulating conversation with Emily Oster, Professor of Economics at Brown University, examining how ideas about heredity and maternal-fetal effects have transformed over the past five decades. Gain valuable perspectives on this interdisciplinary field of research and its implications for our understanding of human development.