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Genes, germs and identity: Who are you?

While in-person events are on hold, the cities that make up taste of science will be producing virtual events throughout the year.

This intriguing event is brought to you by the tos Indy team!

Join us for a conversation with scientist and author Bill Sullivan, and philospher and advocate Adam Hayden as they discuss self, identity, and the struggles faced with biological (un)certainties.

This event will also be live-streamed through the Indiana Sciences Twitch, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube pages.

 
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Adam Hayden, MA is a philosopher, speaker, and organizer, living with brain cancer. He blogs about philosophy, illness, and healthcare. Follow Adam on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Living While Dying, A Philosopher's Journey

“Adam, I have removed a large portion of your brain tumor. I am able to continue removing more tumor, but this comes at the risk of permanent left sided paralysis. Or, we can protect your motor function but leave tumor in the margins of the surgical cavity. What do you want to do?” I was 34 years old, and despite the grim prognosis, I resolved to share my story with others. We each must face the most human of experiences: illness, frailty, and our eventual mortality.

Genes, Germs, and Identity: Who Are You?

Why do you dislike certain foods? Why do you vote the way you do? Why do people overeat? This talk will describe how genes work together with the environment and microbes to shape personality and behavior. Join us for a life-changing look at what makes you… you.

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Bill Sullivan is the author of "Pleased to Meet Me: Genes, Germs, and the Curious Forces That Make Us Who We Are" (National Geographic Books). Sullivan is a professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, where he studies genetics and microbiology. An award-winning researcher, teacher, and science communicator, Sullivan has been featured in a wide variety of outlets, including CNN, Fox & Friends, The Doctors, Science Fantastic with Dr. Michio Kaku, Doctor Radio, and more. He has published over 100 papers in scientific journals and has written for National Geographic, Discover, Scientific American, COSMOS, Psychology Today, and more. Visit him at authorbillsullivan.com and on Twitter.