CARTA Symposium: The Idea Organ

From The Observatory
CARTA Symposium: The Idea Organ
February 27, 2026
United States
Category
February 2026
WkSMTWTFS
05121345671
06891011121314
07151617181920121
082223124252627228
Date
February 27, 2026
Add to a calendar
This symposium will explore how the human brain develops, functions, and maintains its role as the seat of ideas. We will trace its story from molecules, cells, neuronal migration and circuitry, to the maternal, parental, and social influences that shape its growth, including the countless ways that brain function can be compromised at any stage of life. We will examine how the uniquely human interplay of biology and culture gave rise to a brain capable of perceiving and remaking the world around us. By examining the evolutionary roots of our “idea organ,” we aim to illuminate how this singular capacity emerged—and how it continues to drive human innovation.

Agenda

Live Symposium Webcast: Access to the live webcast for this symposium will be provided here on Friday, February 27 starting at 10:00 AM (Pacific Time). All talks will be recorded and posted below.
Key Speaker: Alysson Muotri, Genevieve Konopka, Dean Falk, Joseph Paradiso, Miles Wilkinson