From robots to rhetoric: cognitive science turns 25

In 1982, Vassar granted the world’s first undergraduate degree in cognitive science. Since then, over 200 graduates have earned the degree, taking courses in the field that explores the nature of thought, learning, and behavior by combining the tools of psychology, linguistics, philosophy, neuroscience, and computer science. On November 16-17, the department, including past and present faculty, students, and alums will come together to celebrate cognitive science’s 25th anniversary.

The weekend will kick off with a dinner and reception on Friday, followed by faculty presentations, a poster session, and discussions with graduates. The celebration concludes with a keynote address from noted cognitive science professor Paul Smolensky of Johns Hopkins University. There will also be lectures from four current faculty members of the department. “Vassar’s openness to multidisciplinary exploration made this a natural fit because that’s what cognitive science essentially is,” says Ken Livingston professor of psychology and one of the program’s founding members. What started with two courses in cognitive science, turned into a fully developed curriculum following a Mellon Foundation grant in 1989-90. In addition to the basic requirements, majors take an array of electives in departments like art, music, religion, and anthropology. Over the years, graduates have gone on to diverse fields. One graduate works as a financial analyst for UNICEF, one teaches as a professor of psychology, and another creates independent films and documentaries as a producer and cinematographer.

“Overall, it’s been really fantastic,” reflects Livingston. “I’ve learned so many new things and cognitive science really forces you to go beyond your initial training. It pushes you to stretch beyond the normal ways of looking at things.”