Research Triangle Park, N.C.  The National Humanities Center is set to host its second annual conference on "The Human & The Humanities," November 8 – 10, 2007, featuring some of the most respected and thought-provoking voices from across the academic spectrum. After its successful inaugural conference in 2006, the Center has expanded the conference to three days of stimulating events that will allow participants to exchange ideas and discuss issues surrounding how developments in science are challenging traditional notions of "the human."

Speakers include scholars from a wide range of disciplines, including neuroscience, linguistics, primatology, anthropology, computer science, philosophy, and literary studies. Particular areas of focus for this year's conference will include panels on animal empathy and creativity in computers and non-human species, as well as talks about the considerations and implications for law, policy, the academy, and society.

The conference is open to the public. A registration fee of $30 provides admission to all sessions along with meals during Friday and Saturday's events. Below is a schedule of conference activities including tentative session topics and speakers.

To learn more about the conference or to register online visit the Center's ASC Web site, asc.nhc.rtp.nc.us/, or contact Martha Johnson at (919) 549-0661 (x 156), e-mail mjohnson@nationalhumanitiescenter.org.