A Bionic Brain: Australia’s position

Another informative Conversation piece from Andrew Barron at Macquarie University discussing the future of neuroscience globally and Australia’s position in this field. The article discusses advances in technology and interdisciplinary cooperation that is transforming neuroscience which has led to the burgeoning field of ‘connectomics’. The most exciting thought from this article is that the development of a bionic brain could become a reality before long with billions of dollars being pumped into brain research initiatives across the US and Europe.


Read more here:
https://theconversation.com/its-time-to-build-a-bionic-brain-for-smarter-research-23435

All in the Mind: Australian Neurolaw Database

The ABC series ‘All in the Mind’ features different topics each week that relate to research in understanding how the mind works. A recent edition discussed the newly launched ‘Australian Neurolaw Database’ that Macquarie University’s Centre for Agency, Values and Ethics is jointly running with the University of Sydney. Whilst this article provides Stephen Morses’ view that behavioural evidence is ‘much more directly relevant’ it is argued neurolaw may have future applications in providing better rehabilitation outcomes.

To read more:
http://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/allinthemind/can-neurolaw-change-the-criminal-justice-system/7323610

Introduction: Our Blog spot

The Think Creative team have a passion for artificial intelligence, machine learning, cognitive science, neuroscience and philosophy of the mind. Advancements in these fields have provided invaluable insight for the next generation of systems and information technology. Our blog is a space for us to share important research and discoveries in these and related areas.

The first link that Think Creative would like to share comes from Colin Klein and Andrew Barron from Macquarie University Sydney and overviews their insights into phenomenal consciousness. Their research is taking on a new way of thinking about the study of consciousness. Philosophy has often used a behaviourist approach to recognize consciousness in others, yet this of course is limiting. Studying the structures of the brains of bees however has uncovered a potential that they may also have a first person perspective.

Read more on their Conversation article:
https://theconversation.com/what-it-is-like-to-be-a-bee-insects-can-teach-us-about-the-origins-of-consciousness-57792