Description

The human brain may be the most complex structure in the universe. It is so powerful that it is attempting to understand itself, through research.

New techniques have opened up ways of exploring the brain. Functional imaging allows us to watch the brain in action; our understanding of the biochemistry of nerve function has blossomed; and the genetic revolution has allowed us to probe the function of individual genes and proteins. These techniques are shedding light on the very essence of human life - how we feel, think and act. Even the nature of consciousness is beginning to be unravelled. But:

Can we really see ourselves simply as 'biological computers'?

If we understand the basis of our mental self-image, or identity, can we (and should we) seek to change ourselves into something else?

And if our actions are just biology in action, how responsible can we be for what we do?