Lauren Ross

Lauren Ross, a philosopher of science with a medical background, and Megan Peters, a computational neuroscientist, delve into the synergy of science and philosophy. They discuss misconceptions that pit the two against each other, emphasizing how philosophy provides clarity and rigor to scientific inquiry. The duo also explores how neuroscience informs philosophical debates, particularly in understanding consciousness. They highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and challenge conventional notions of subjective experience, pushing for a more integrated approach to knowledge.

Lauren Ross, a philosopher of science specializing in biology and neuroscience, engages in a fascinating discussion about the nature of scientific explanations. She emphasizes the importance of distinguishing good explanations from mere correlations and critiques the reductionist tendencies in scientific practices. Ross explores the evolving interpretations of mechanisms and non-causal mathematical explanations, advocating for pluralism in scientific inquiry. Additionally, she highlights the interplay between philosophy and practical scientific applications, urging a focus on explanations that facilitate discovery and control.

Join Lauren Ross, an Associate Professor at UC Irvine, as she unravels the complexities of causation and explanation in science. She discusses the various meanings of causation, from deterministic to probabilistic views, and how these concepts relate to scientific inquiry. Delve into the challenges of understanding causal relationships in psychiatry, where multi-causality complicates diagnosis. Ross also emphasizes the need for clear communication in science to enhance public understanding of causal relationships, fostering collaboration between scientists and philosophers.