Cognitive Conversations #6: Exploded View - Philosophies of the Brain and Mind

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This week on the podcast, Bianca is joined live by two psychiatrist-creatives, Dr Warren Ward and Dr Rory Hutchinson, discussing philosophies of the brain and mind. Journey into the labyrinth to learn what incited these two creative/medical practitioners to pursue a career devoted to the science of the mind and brain. Hear their generous insights on using narrative techniques in their day-to-day practice, and where the creative process, autonomy, ethics and philosophy all fit into this picture. Finally, we explore how scientific and medical practice could be approached differently through the lens of art, philosophy, and the humanities - what it is about the combination of art and science that ignites endless curiosity?

Content note: This episode touches on mental illness, PTSD, eating disorders, suicidality and other aspects of psychiatric medicine. Please take care when listening and reach out to support services available 24/7 when needed.

Meet our guests

Dr Warren Ward is a psychiatrist who writes about philosophy, culture, travel and the history of ideas. His first novel-length work, Lovers of Philosophy, explores the love lives of seven continental philosophers. Warren is an experienced psychiatrist who specialises in eating disorders, and is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Queensland.

Dr. Rory Hutchinson is a highly qualified psychiatrist who uses his extensive knowledge and experience in the Medical Humanities to deliver evidence-based, compassionate care that can make a real difference in people's lives. Rory is also working on a nonfiction project exploring the final works by great artists to understand what art can teach us about life and death. 

Bianca Millroy (SWN host) is an emerging science writer, editor, podcaster and PhD student based in Meanjin (Brisbane). Find out more about Bianca on SWN. 

This episode was recorded live at the State Library of Queensland on Kurilpa Point, Place of the Water Rat, overlooking the beautiful Maiwar River. 

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We’ll be back with another episode soon, and more conversations inspired by science and creativity to come!

We acknowledge the Jaegara and Turrbal People, Traditional Owners of the land on which this podcast is created, and the unceded cultural lands on which our guests live and continue to make and tell stories.