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SUMMARY:Introduction to Catastrophe Theory with Applications to Biology an
 d the Social Sciences - Sir Christopher Zeeman\, Oxford University
DTSTART:20081110T174500Z
DTEND:20081110T190000Z
UID:TALK15039@talks.cam.ac.uk
CONTACT:David Gordon
DESCRIPTION:Catastrophe theory is a method of modelling discovered by Rene
  Thom in the 1960's.  It is based on deep theorems in mathematics that are
  hard to prove\, but easy to understand geometrically.  It is particularly
  useful for modelling phenomena in which continuous causes can produce dis
 continuous effects\, and which occur throughout science.  \n\nThis lecture
  will give an introduction to the method\, focusing on applications in the
  biological and social sciences.  The first example to be discussed is a m
 odel by F J Seif that helped to explain hyperthyroidism\; he was able to f
 it the data of 400 patients onto a cusp catastrophe\, from which he was th
 en able to identify the onset of the disorder and to predict an unexpected
  and successful cure for those whom the conventional treatment had unfortu
 nately switched into hypothyroidism.  \n\nThe second model concerns switch
 es of mood\, between fight and flight.  This can help to explain the behav
 iour of dogs\, the resolution of children's tantrums\, and the strategies 
 used by some animals in the defence of their territories.\n\nFinally\, we 
 shall apply the method to certain famous switches of perception in literat
 ure.  \n\n\nBio:\nSir Christopher Zeeman is a fellow of the Royal Society\
 , and has held posts at a number of universities\, including Cambridge\, O
 xford\, Princeton\, the University of Chicago\, the University of Warwick\
 , and Hertford College.  An expert in topology and dynamical systems\, his
  lectures at the University of Warwick were often fillted to capacity (in 
 a lecture hall of 400 seats).  \n\nSir Christopher has received numerous h
 onours thoughout his career\, including the Faraday Medal from the Royal S
 ociety in 1988 in recognition of his ability to communicate science to pub
 lic audiences.  He has been invited to speak at dozens of named lectures -
 - a testament to his teaching abiliities.  
LOCATION:Old Library\, Pembroke College
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