SCIENCE/fiction

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This seminar introduces cutting-edge biology, genetics, and neuroscience through primary research papers while encouraging discussion of whats next through short science fiction stories. Sometimes imagination leads science; other times fiction popularizes a scientific discovery, tool, or invention. What is possible, aspirational, or cautionary? Topics include: memory, identity, evolution, humanity, destiny, augmentation. Papers on zombie cockroaches, de-extinction, synthetic life, extra senses, implanted memories; Stories by Borges, Dick, Butler, Murakami, McCaffrey, Jemison, and Chiang