Barbara Tversky

Barbara Tversky, an acclaimed psychologist and Stanford University professor, dives into the fascinating interplay between action and thought. She unpacks the Nine Laws of Cognition and explains how language can shape our perception. Tversky shares insights on effective communication, especially via Zoom, and explores the role of gestures in enhancing memory and understanding. Additionally, she reflects on the creative processes of Leonardo da Vinci and emphasizes the importance of perspective-taking in cognition and problem-solving.

In this engaging conversation, Barbara Tversky, an Emeritus professor of psychology at Stanford and expert in spatial thinking, joins to explore the connections between mind, space, and motion. They discuss how our understanding of space predates language and the role of gestures in communication. Tversky explains the influence of mirror neurons on cognition and the complexity of spatial reasoning. The impact of technology on navigation skills and the relationship between body movement and thought are also intriguing focal points that resonate throughout the discussion.

Barbara Tversky, an Emerita professor of psychology at Stanford and a thought leader in spatial cognition, shares her groundbreaking insights on how our physical interactions shape cognitive processes. The conversation explores the connection between spatial reasoning and AI, highlighting how Large Multimodal Models mirror human sensory integration. Tversky also discusses the powerful role of external expressions in creativity, the dynamics of memory during crises, and the cultural nuances influencing urban driving behaviors. These concepts are increasingly relevant as we navigate AI's evolving landscape.

Join Josh Cohen, a psychoanalyst and professor of literature; Barbara Tversky, a psychological expert on memory and creativity; and Edward Harcourt, an Oxford philosopher who studies consciousness, as they delve into the labyrinth of the unconscious mind. They discuss how unconscious motivations drive compulsive behaviors, the significance of emotional wounds in therapy, and the complexities of human desires. This lively conversation challenges the listener to consider the role of the unconscious in shaping identity and personal growth.

Barbara Tversky, an emerita professor at Stanford and a pioneer in spatial cognition, reveals how our understanding of space influences abstract thought. She discusses the limitations of language in reflecting our cognitive processes and the creative power of sketching. Tversky explores the challenges of self-driving cars, emphasizing cultural differences in driving behaviors. Her insights challenge current AI designs to consider spatial reasoning as a crucial element, demonstrating that our relationship with space shapes not just thought, but also how we interact with technology.