Nature and Nurture of the Brain

The new born baby is not a blank slate. We know babies have preferences for certain patterns, voices and faces, but are these preferences 'knowledge'? The nervous system evolved to resonate with the world. It is, therefore, entirely plausible that aspects of the environment are in our genes. So knowledge of the world is already built in - but to what extent?

In the case of Romanian orphans who have suffered severe deprivation, there has been a remarkable degree of recovery in their development after they were adopted by UK families. How are genes and the environment linked to our behaviour and character, and to health and disease?

Experts in brain development will offer their thoughts on nature and nurture.

Event organised by:
The European Dana Alliance for the Brain and Imperial College London.