This course is based on actual experience, backed by factual knowledge drawn from as close to the source as possible, often from researchers in their universities and laboratories. The author has done the grunt work of distilling and refining the concepts through the writing of books and the production of artworks. A further distillation has taken place in the making of this course, which gets right to the point of what makes or breaks the adventure that is our life.
But sometimes it is best to let others speak for you.
Dear Annette—I wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed your visit to Cleveland last week. You have a way of transmitting your vision of how eventually neuroscience will begin to give us insight into the positive emotions and the joy that results when we see ourselves as part of the natural world.
As we discussed, at this time I am deeply interested in the role of silence and reflection on brain function and learning, which becomes apparent from your journey around the globe, and our planet’s place in the universe. The unity of it all, and the recognition of these evolutionary relationships between ourselves and our environment, will continue have a profound impact on our thoughts and behaviors over time. And, as you know, I hope to live long enough to see that impact on education, beginning with conception itself!
[...] to develop deep understanding of the connections between silence, art, and the brain, as you are an example of an artist who realizes that profound understanding of the brain will greatly influence the artist of the future. We need more of you folks in the middle: the artist who understands the brain, and the neuroscientist who understands art.
So, even though it may sometimes be difficult, I want to encourage you to continue your journeys, both of mind and of body.
Thank you again for your visit, your energy, and your courage.
Very truly, Jim Zull
Professor of Biology, Biochemistry, and Cognitive Science
Case Western Reserve University