Seeing the Big Picture: How the Brain Manipulates Our Visual World with Mark Pitzer, Ph.D.

A presentation by Mark R. Pitzer, Ph.D. - Co-Director of Neuroscience, Department of Behavioral Sciences, University of Portland. 

When we open our eyes, are we really seeing reality? Why did people disagree about the color of “The Dress,” and why can a ticking clock’s second hand seem to freeze for a moment?

Neuroscience suggests the brain doesn’t create a perfect copy of the world—it makes rapid, informed guesses to help us navigate our environment. Through engaging stories and demonstrations, Dr. Mark Pitzer will explore how the brain highlights, filters and even alters what we consciously perceive.

Dr. Pitzer is a neuroscientist at the University of Portland whose research focuses on brain development and neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s and Huntington’s diseases. An award-winning teacher, he is known for making neuroscience accessible, engaging and thought-provoking.

Chandler Lecture Series believes that participation in our programs should not be a privilege but accessible to all who want to participate. Toward that core belief, we have a sliding scale ticket model. Sliding scale pricing allows individuals from diverse financial backgrounds to participate in our events. By providing a range of ticket prices, we acknowledge that everyone's financial situation is unique, and we aim to remove barriers that may prevent someone from attending. Please choose the ticket price that feels most comfortable to you.