Prediction, procrastination and predetermination

Mind-reading has remained ever popular and intriguing. Since the origin of the concept, claims for the existence of clairvoyance have not been supported by published scientific evidence. Although science is yet to prove the ability of the brain to gain information about an object, person, or location through means other than the known senses, research using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) technology has provided demonstrations of thought identification; in some sense, mind reading. Can we use fMRI technology this evening to turn you into mind-readers?

Procrastination is a common human problem that is seemingly harmless – or is it? Putting off important intended tasks, like writing that challenging report or going to the gym, may provide some immediate relief of the stress from thinking about these tasks. But when avoiding unpleasant tasks becomes a habit, there may be some very unhealthy consequences. In this talk I will explore the science behind why people procrastinate, why procrastination can be bad for your health, and how mentally time-travelling to connect with your future self can reduce procrastination and its health risks.

I will talk all about the neuroscience of decision making. As we understand more and more about the neural mechanisms of choice, there seems to be less and less space for notions of free-will. Decision making appears to be like perception.... the brain crunches information.... as a result of the crunching, we see a beautiful sun-set or decide to go for a bike-ride.