Does Science Have Nothing to Say About Human Values?

Dr. Rahul Gaurav's enlightening talk on "Does Science Have Nothing to Say About Human

Values?" delves into the intricate intersection of neuroscience, philosophy, and the human

experience. His work, deep rooted in neuroimaging research, particularly focused on aging,

Parkinson's disease, and also movement disorders, which offers a multifaceted approach to

understanding the complexities of the human mind.

To address his research, Dr. Gaurav's uses advanced MRI and fMRI techniques, including

high-field 2, 3, and 7 Tesla MRIs, alongside 11.7 T MRI for mouse studies, showcases the

depth of modern neuroscientific tools. The inclusion of 3T PET MRI in his research

emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach. His commitment to developing

non-invasive biomarkers for diseases, like Parkinson's, is particularly commendable, as early

detection and accurate monitoring are vital in improving patients' lives.

It is evident that the integration of cutting-edge AI models into neuroimaging research holds

great promise, not only for understanding the dopaminergic pathway in Parkinson's but also

for potential applications in other complex disorders.

However, some elements of Dr. Gaurav's talk need a further exploration. His discussion of the

philosophical dimension, where he examines the relation between science and human values,

leaves room for many questions. While he presents intriguing questions about morality and

the transition from "is" to "ought," the confluence of facts and well-being, as well as the

intersection of belief, knowledge, and reality, his assertions feels somewhat speculative. The

absence of strong evidence in this area left me pondering the solidity of these claims.

Moreover, his exploration of subjective experiences related to beliefs, such as supernatural

ideas and decoupled cognition, feels somewhat detached from the empirical and quantitative

focus of his neuroimaging work.

Yet, Dr. Gaurav's passion for investigating the biological underpinnings of human beliefs is

indeed commendable. His endeavour to bridge the gap between science and the profound

questions of human existence describes the interdisciplinary nature of his research. His

insights into the neuroscience of belief and politics, such as the neural correlates of political

orientations and belief systems, which is about the enhanced size of grey matter in the leftist

politician versus the rightists, provides valuable glimpses into the complex interplay between

cognition and ideology. It is crucial to appreciate that while Dr. Gaurav's talk may raise more

questions than it answers, it ignites curiosity and encourages a deeper exploration of the

relationship between science and human values.

Furthermore, the expansion of his AI model from 16 patients to a broader dataset of 1000

participants demonstrates a commitment towards refinement and enhancement of the

accuracy of diagnostic tools, offering hope for more precise healthcare interventions in the

future.

Additionally, his recognition of the importance of studying genetic Parkinson's disease in

diverse populations, including those of North African heritage and the Indian population,

underscores the need for inclusivity and tailored approaches in healthcare research.

In conclusion, Dr. Rahul Gaurav's talk provokes thought and curiosity by bridging the realms

of neuroscience, philosophy, and human values. His neuroimaging research, though

impressive, meets certain philosophical inquiries with speculative ideas that might benefit

from further empirical grounding.

Nevertheless, his dedication to addressing the biological complexities of human beliefs and

values, alongside his commitment towards refining of the AI models for diagnostic purposes,

promises a future where science can offer more profound insights into the human condition.
As we navigate the intricate landscape of science and its relation to human values, Dr.

Gaurav's work serves as a reminder of the infinite potential that lies at the intersection of

these disciplines, urging us to venture further into the realms of human cognition and

consciousness.

Soubantik Sengupta
2022HCS7004