Ever wonder what it would be like to encounter an alien
intelligence? Psychologist and marine mammal researcher Diana Reiss knows how it
feels. Dr. Reiss has been researching dolphins for over 30 years, and while she
has experienced moments of interspecies understanding, the mind of the dolphin
remains as mysterious and exciting as ever.
Dolphin brains are large and their social lives are complex,
but how far does dolphin intelligence go? Using clicks, whistles, and body
motions, dolphins clearly communicate among themselves. So far though, scientists have
little idea what they might be saying. To investigate, Dr. Reiss designed a
pioneering underwater keyboard for dolphins to facilitate communication with
human researchers. Dr. Reiss asks:
--How do we study the mind of an animal so different than
us?
--Can new technology help us crack the code of dolphin
communication?
--What role do scientists play in the protection of dolphins and their habitats?
Diana Reiss is a professor in the Department of Psychology
at Hunter College
and the Biopsychology and Behavioral Neuroscience Program at the CUNY Graduate
Center. Dr. Reiss's
research focuses on cetacean cognition, communication, and the evolution of intelligence. Much of her work focuses on vocal
communication and vocal learning in dolphins using observational and
experimental approaches. Dr. Reiss was scientific advisor for the Oscar-winning
film The Cove, and author of the
book, The Dolphin in the Mirror.
Before & After
--Try our chatty cocktail of the night, the Click & Whistle
--Groove to sounds of the surf, sea shanties, and whale song
--Stick around for the ebb & flow of Q&A
This deep-diving edition of the Secret
Science Club meets Monday, January 25, 8 pm @ the Bell House, 149 7th St. (between 2nd and 3rd avenues)
in Gowanus, Brooklyn. Subway: F or G to 4th Ave; R to 9th Street.
Doors open at 7:30 pm. Please bring
ID: 21+. No cover.
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