What we do

We do cognitive science*: an emerging field of study that is considered to be the intersection of those diverse disciplines previously named--and which is believed, by many, to be what will elucidate the workings of mind, brain, and intelligent artifacts. In truth, it should be admitted that, as an organization, we tend to discuss and promote cognitive science; much of the doing, so to speak, takes place in the work several of us engage in as students and professors. Nevertheless, IMBIA seeks precisely what cognitive science seeks--answers to questions such as:

How does the mind work?

To what extent can computers emulate, and even extend, the mind?

What relation lies between mind and brain? Are the two fundamentally different substances--with an immaterial mind somehow interacting with a material brain--or does there exist only the electrified mass of tissue sloshing about in each of our skulls?

Can mere "dumb" matter (like neurons or silicon chips), when systematically composed and deployed, be what is both necessary and sufficient to produce mind and intelligence? Or to put it another way, can machines think?

Sound intriguing? Then join us weekly as we explore these and similar questions.

*Some prefer to say, rather than "cognitive science," the "brain and cognitive sciences." Both labels appear throughout this site.

learn how IMBIA's
members shape its agenda...

view a list of past speakers
and member presentations...

who we are...

why we exist...

view the original
student proposal for IMBIA...