The topic of "consciousness" will be explored in "Change Your Mind," a Pennsylvania College of Technology Professional Development Colloquium, set for Thursday, Feb. 18, 7 to 8:30 p.m., in the Professional Development Center. The event is free and open to the public.
"People have been intrigued with the notion of consciousness for millennia, asking what it is and where it comes from," stated Dr. Bruce Conforth, dean of Penn College's School of Integrated Studies. "Is it only a mechanical product of the biochemistry of our brains? Does it begin with birth and end with death? Or does it extend beyond those parameters? Is there such a thing as mind/soul/spirit that transcends the physical body?"
These questions and more will be discussed and debated by Conforth and a panel of guests, including Penn College faculty members Dr. Jean Roberts, assistant professor of psychology/department head of social sciences and humanities; Dr. Richard Sahn, instructor of sociology/psychology; Dr. George Matthews, instructor of philosophy/ethics; and Dr. David Evans, professor of biology. Also joining the panel will be the Rev. Michael Cooper, rector of St. James Episcopal Church, and the Rev. Dai-En Bennage, senior Zen priest of Mount Equity Zendo.
Through their own insights into Eastern and Western thought, science and philosophy, the panel will offer various interpretations on the ancient and fascinating issue of consciousness.