Annie Wertz

Annie Wertz, a Professor of Psychology at UCSB, shares her groundbreaking research on infants' understanding of plants and the role of social learning in their interactions. She discusses how babies navigate their environment using social cues to assess which plants are safe or toxic, revealing an intricate cognitive process. Wertz critiques traditional views on cognitive modularity, emphasizing the evolutionary aspects of learning and survival strategies. The conversation highlights the deeper emotional connections humans have with plants and the importance of hands-on learning in fostering positive relationships with nature.