5.a. Neuroscience, Human Nature and Society

Neuroscience is the next great frontier of science. Emory University is ideally positioned to attain international distinction for interdisciplinary and integrative studies of the brain, using neuroscientific approaches to: 1) address fundamental questions about human uniqueness and the basis of human nature; 2) create a new comprehensive and interdisciplinary center for brain diseases that integrates clinical care, research, and education, while shifting the focus to disease prevention and promotion of well-being; and 3) explore the larger social implications of findings from brain research and translate this understanding into public policy so as to benefit society as a whole.

Emory’s uniqueness includes the ability to link arts and science areas to include philosophy, anthropology, the humanities, and psychology with the health sciences including the unique resource of the Yerkes National Primate Research Center. Few universities rival Emory with respect to opportunities for integrative programs between arts and sciences and health sciences.

Emory has opportunities to pursue four distinctive areas:

• Neurobiology of well-being and disease
• Evolution and human uniqueness
• Interdisciplinary study of human nature
• Neuroscience and public policy
  

Emory will develop a uniquely structured Comprehensive Clinical and Translational Neuroscience Center at Emory that will integrate discovery-based translational research, clinical care, and education, all focused on promoting well-being and reducing the burden of brain disease. This center will extend well beyond the School of Medicine and Emory Healthcare, drawing on many faculty and programs across the University including arts and sciences, public health, the graduate school or arts and sciences, law, and business.