First Year Seminars

Honor Code

FYSP-133 Science and the Mind
3 hours Most recent syllabus
The study of the brain and mind is one of the most exciting frontiers of science. We will discuss some fundamental aspects of science including reasoning, review the basic principles of evolution, learn about brain structure/function, and then explore some of the exciting areas of research in brain and mind. Broad topics include: How does the brain work? What does brain damage tell us about how the mind works? How much of what we perceive is ‘real'? Enrollment Limit: 14.
Ms. Thornton

FYSP-137 The Brain Is Wider Than the Sky: Neurobiology of the Mind
3 hours
Most recent syllabus
First Semester. Recent scientific discoveries about mind, brain and behavior are making important contributions to our understanding of human nature. This course will examine various aspects of brain structure and function (and damage and dysfunction) in relation to selected topics including emotion, language, thought and consciousness. No prior background is assumed. Both lecture and discussion formats will be used. Consent of instructor required. Enrollment Limit: 14 first-year students. Not open to students who have taken NSCI 100 or NSCI 102.
Mr. Braford