Science  Write  Now

This week on the podcast, Bianca is joined live by two special guests for a deep dive on the brain and mind for our next episode in the Cognitive Conversations series: “Exploded View”.

Journey into the labyrinth with Dr Warren Ward and Dr Rory Hutchinson to learn what incited these two medico-creative practitioners to take an active interest in studying the science of the mind and brain. Hear their generous insights on how they use narrative techniques in a medical setting, and where the creative process, autonomy, ethics and philosophy all fit into this picture. 

A central aspect of Warren’s writing and research focuses on philosophy, and indeed the love lives of several prominent philosophers throughout history. Find out what led Warren to writing his book, Lovers of Philosophy and how literature contributes to what we know now about culture, social experimentation and modern philosophy, or the 'love of wisdom' and history of ideas. 

Rory shares the innovative concept behind his latest nonfiction project that explores what an artist’s final work can teach us about life and death - consider Monet’s Water Lilies, Dali’s The Swallow’s Tail or Van Gogh’s Self Portrait Facing Death as some of the more famous examples. What can these modes of creative practice reveal about the artist’s psyche?  

Finally, we explore how scientific and medical practice could be approached differently through art, humanities and philosophy - what it is about the combination of art and science that ignites endless curiosity?

Meet our guests

Dr Warren Ward is a psychiatrist who writes about philosophy, culture, travel and the history of ideas. His first novel-length work, Lovers of Philosophy, explores the love lives of seven continental philosophers. Warren is an experienced psychiatrist who specialises in eating disorders, and is Associate Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Queensland.

Dr. Rory Hutchinson is a highly qualified psychiatrist who uses his extensive knowledge and experience in the Medical Humanities to deliver evidence-based, compassionate care that can make a real difference in people's lives. Rory is also working on a nonfiction project exploring the final works by great artists to understand what art can teach us about life and death. 

About your host: Bianca Millroy is an emerging science writer, editor, podcaster and PhD student based in Meanjin (Brisbane).

Content note: This episode touches on mental illness, PTSD, eating disorders, suicidality and other aspects of psychiatric medicine. Please take care when listening and reach out to support services available 24/7 when needed.

This episode was recorded live at the State Library of Queensland on Kurilpa Point, Place of the Water Rat, overlooking the beautiful Maiwar River.

We acknowledge the Jaegara and Turrbal People as the traditional custodians of these lands, and pay respects to Elders, past and present. Always Was, Always Will Be Aboriginal Land.

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