CIIS Public Programs

Author, teacher, and ecophilosopher Joanna Macy is known the world over for her workshops for social and environmental activists. She's joined in conversation by ecophilosophy teacher Renée G. Soule to discuss her life and work.

Brian Christian, an author and computer scientist, and Tom Griffiths, a cognitive scientist, dive into the intriguing world of algorithms and human decision-making. They unravel the explore-exploit dilemma and discuss its impact on personal choices, from dating to parking. The duo introduces the 'look then leap' rule and highlights computational kindness in social interactions. They also explore how scheduling theory applies to time management, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing tasks and minimizing regret for a fulfilling life.

CIIS Professor and author Carolyn Cooke explores reading and writing as important acts of consciousness. This talk is part of our Big Ideas at CIIS series.

Jerry Kaplan, a computer scientist and AI expert talks with Kal Spelletich, an artist who works with robotics about how humans might leverage this emerging technology creatively. This conversation is part of our Technology and Consciousness Series.

CIIS professor Craig Chalquist explores how myths jump out of the myth books and into our lives, inhabiting current events, our language, politics, and more.

The head of Wikipedia’s library, Jake Orlowitz, in conversation with Dr Matt Segall about how Wikipedia keeps it’s vast and complicated platform running.

American Buddhist scholar Reggie Ray on how trauma can be an opportunity for spiritual growth.

Author and hip hop journalist Jeff Chang in conversation with novelist and poet Adam Mansbach on the cultural history - and future - of race in America.

CIIS professor Michelle Glowa talks about how our food choices affect the world, and what we can do to cultivate more just and sustainable food systems.

Author and activist Sobonfu Somé on the importance of grieving and ritual.