Cheltenham Science Festival
8 - 12 June 2005
http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.org.uk
List members may be interested in the 4th Cheltenham Science Festival which this year explores the theme of 'Other Worlds', from time travel to narcolepsy, through developing countries, extreme environments and altered states.
The programme brings you high-profile names and leading scientists including Guest Director David Puttnam, mathematician Roger Penrose, best-selling author Philip Pullman, journalist John Humphrys, cosmologist Lisa Randall and Channel 4's Dr Tatiana (Olivia Judson). With nearly 100 events over 5 days, there is plenty to choose from.
The following events give you a taster of the programme, for bookings or brochure requests please call 01242 227 979, or go to http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.org.uk where you can browse all events online.
Brain Transformations
What makes us who we are?
Leading neuroscientist Faraneh Vargha-Khadem and Richard Frackowiak, president of the British Neuroscience Association, discuss the influences which affect our brains. How are memories stored and language formed? Can the brain repair itself after damage or in old age? Join Mark Lythgoe to find out what affects how you behave.
Under Your Skin
Gunther von Hagens
Gunther von Hagens has been referred to as Frankenstein, the modern Vesal and the Galileo of anatomy. Over 16 million people have visited his exhibition of preserved human corpses, Body Worlds, whilst his public autopsy received hundreds of complaints but achieved record viewing figures. Join the discussion on the attraction, repulsion and taboo surrounding his work.
New Frontiers of Taste
Explore the science of taste with 3-star Michelin chef Heston Blumenthal, BBC Full on Food’s gastronaut Stefan Gates, wine and sake specialist Jean-Louis Naveilhan, and other taste experts in an evening of culinary innovation and molecular gastronomy. Experience what is delicious about Japanese food while investigating ‘umami’ – the fifth taste sensation, discover what influences will determine the food of the future and experience a sensory journey into the world of wine, food and flavour.
The Cyborg Experiment
They can feel magnetism, touch remotely and sense objects hidden behind walls. These are not comic book heroes but human volunteers at the Cheltenham Science Festival who have learned to use devices that give them new sensory powers. Artificial life researchers from the University of Sussex, and engineer Sarah Angliss reveal what happened during this week-long investigation and discuss its implications for medicine, entertainment and the study of human and machine intelligence.
Philip Pullman and Robert Winston
The Science of Belief
Is belief inherent in the human brain? How does our view of a god affect who we are and our science and culture? Philip Pullman, author of the Dark Materials trilogy and Robert Winston presenter of BBC’s The History of God discuss the meaning of religion in science and literature.
FameLab Final
Watch the nail biting conclusion to FameLab, the national ‘pop idol’ competition for scientists, with compere and broadcaster, Quentin Cooper, as our finalists battle it out for broadcasting time on Channel 4 and a large cash prize. Come along and cast your vote.
Genetic Modification of Animals
John Humphrys and Robert Winston
The genetic modification of animals may contribute to human wellbeing and welfare, but at what cost? Can the research be ethically justified and what will the consequences be for the environment and health of animals and humans? John Humphrys and Robert Winston discuss the issues.
Gillian Rendle
Science Festival Co-ordinator
FameLab Co-ordinator
www.famelab.org
Cheltenham Science Festival
8 - 12 June 2005
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Town Hall, Imperial Square, Cheltenham, Glos GL50 1QA
T 01242 775824 F 01242 573902
Visit our website at http://www.cheltenhamfestivals.co.uk
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