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Updated: Mar 11, 2026
26:41
Perspectives on Neuroscience
Published on: July 31, 2007
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Poetry and Neuroscience: : An Interdisciplinary Conversation
James Wilkes1, Sophie K Scott2
1Durham University.
Configurations
|November 26, 2016
Summary
This study explores scientist-non-scientist dialogues, using a neuroscientist and poet
Area of Science:
- Interdisciplinary Studies
- Neuroscience and Humanities Collaboration
- Science Communication
Background:
- Growing recognition of the importance of dialogue between scientists and the public.
- Need for innovative approaches in science communication and public engagement.
- Potential for cross-disciplinary collaboration to enrich scientific understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore divergent disciplinary understandings of key concepts like experiment, noise, voice, and emotion.
- To extend dialogue initiated during a lab-based poetry residency.
- To foster a deeper public engagement with scientific research through collaborative dialogue.
Main Methods:
- A dialogical approach was employed, involving a neuroscientist and a poet.
- A recorded conversation was expanded into an essayistic format.
- Exploration of disciplinary differences in interpreting scientific and artistic concepts.
Main Results:
- Articulation and questioning of diverse understandings of experiment, noise, voice, and emotion.
- Demonstration of how interdisciplinary dialogue can reveal nuanced perspectives.
- Successful extension of initial ideas through a collaborative, essayistic format.
Conclusions:
- Dialogical and collaborative approaches are valuable for scientific research and public engagement.
- Interdisciplinary conversations can bridge gaps in understanding and foster new insights.
- Poetry residencies and essayistic forms can facilitate meaningful science communication.
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