The Pattern Seekers A new theory of human invention

Why can humans alone invent? In this talk, based on his new book, psychologist and world renowned autism expert Simon Baron-Cohen will put forward a bold new theory: because we can identify patterns, specifically if-and-then patterns. And he argues that the genes for this unique ability overlap with the genes for autism.

From the first musical instrument to the agricultural, industrial and digital revolutions, Baron-Cohen will show how this unique ability has driven human progress for 70,000 years. By linking one of our greatest human strengths with a condition that is so often misunderstood, the event will challenge us to think differently about those who think differently.