Allen L. Edwards Public Lecture series explores the science of altruism

On April 23, the Department hosted its 17th annual Allen L. Edwards Public Lecture series. This was the first year the event was held in an interdisciplinary panel format. Established by a generous bequest from Professor Allen Edwards, who was associated with the Department of Psychology for half a century, the Edwards lectures bring nationally and internationally renowned scientists to the University of Washington to enrich faculty, students, and the public’s knowledge of relevant psychological topics.

The subject of this year's panel discussion was “The Science of Altruism,” and it brought together leading experts from psychology, anthropology, neuroscience, and animal behavioral to explore the biological, cognitive, and social foundations of altruistic actions.

Moderated by KUOW Host Bill Radke, the event featured the following panelists:

• Abigail Marsh, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience, Georgetown University
• Kristen Hawkes, Ph.D., Distinguished Professor of Anthropology, University of Utah
• Andrew Meltzoff, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology and Co-Director of the Institute for Learning & Brain Sciences, University of Washington.
• John M. Marzluff, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Wildlife Science, University of Washington

If you were unable to attend in person, a recording of the event is available online.