There are many wonders in the human mind and behavior. Cognitive neuroscience understands the diverse information processing in the brain that makes them possible as cognitive processes. In this field, functional brain imaging techniques that visualize cognitive processes in the brain reveal the brain mechanisms that realize our mentality and behavior. Human brain science, among others, is conducting various basic and applied studies on the mysteries of the mind and behavior that characterize “human nature”. This course aims to introduce a wide range of topics from basic knowledge to the latest findings and to give you a sense of the possibilities of human brain science.

How is the mind created in the brain? The brain integrates diverse sensory inputs, selects information about the environment and things, evaluates values, and reflects them in behavior by referring to memories. Functional brain imaging technology that visualizes these diverse information processing, or cognitive processes, which are the components of the mind, has made today's cognitive neuroscience possible.

The first week of the course aims to provide a basic understanding of the site where the mind is born and the technology to visualize it.

Human nature is characterized by advanced cognitive processing and social skills. We understand and manipulate language and take in diverse meanings from our environment. We communicate with others, understand their invisible minds, and create complex societies through communication. In this context, we manipulate various things as abstract concepts to achieve advanced thinking and creativity. In Week 2, we will look at the complex mind and brain mechanisms that people have developed to live in society.

From their advanced cognitive processing and socialization, humans have created a sense of “self” that sets them apart from others. The “self” is the body, the subject of movement and thought, the being in the eyes of others, and the being that has some value and role in society. This “self” is the core of our humanity and also creates various existential and social problems. In Week 3, we will explore the wonders of the mind and brain that create the self.

Human brain science reveals the mechanisms of the brain that enable the human-like mind and behavior. How will the results of this research change our future? The application of human brain science has begun in all fields where human mind and behavior are questioned, such as safety and physical and mental health in our daily lives, business, and systems and education to solve various social issues. In Week 4, we will introduce research in various fields on the potential of human brain science to open up the future.

*This course will be the same as the first course offered in August 2023 and the second course offered in July 2024, with some changes in assignments.