"Order and Disorder in the Emotional Brain"

In his lecture, Davidson will explore the emotions at the core of human personality that define each person's resilience as well as our vulnerability to adversity. These patterns of neural activity are not immutable to change but rather can be transformed through systematic mental training such as meditation. The literature on neuroplasticity supports the view that happiness, well-being, and emotional balance are best regarded as the product of trainable skills.

Richard J. Davidson is the William James and Vilas Research Professor of Psychology and Psychiatry. His research focuses on emotion and affective disorders, including depression and anxiety.

A panel discussion responding to Davidson's ideas will be held on February 5, 2009 in the Carolyn Tanner Irish Humanities Building, room 109. Moderating is Tom Parks, U. vice president of research, and panelists include Daniel Siegel of Mindsight Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles; Jason Watson, U. assistant professor of psychology; and psychiatrist Deborah Yurgelun-Todd of the U.'s Brain Institute.

PRESS COVERAGE: Psychologist explores techniques of happiness at Tanner Lecture | Salt Lake Tribune