WYOMISSING, Pa. – Penn State Berks will host acclaimed science writer Annie Murphy Paul, author of “The Extended Mind: The Power of Thinking Outside the Brain," at 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 1, in the Perkins Student Center Auditorium as part of the college’s Common Reading Week.

Paul will discuss her book, "The Extended Mind," and the research behind "extra-neural" resources. This research encompasses various elements, including the feelings and movements of bodies; the physical spaces where people learn and work; the influence of the minds of others; and insights from neuroscientists, cognitive scientists and psychologists. It also includes an examination of the practices of students, educators and leaders who are already benefiting from thinking beyond the confines of the brain.

The Common Reading Program is designed to introduce students to the academic environment of college. The purpose of the program is to provide first-year students with an enjoyable and positive reading experience, to reinforce the message that reading is an integral part of the college experience, and to foster a sense of community among first-year students. The first-year seminar course will include academic components based on the content of the common reading selection.

The next lecture will be “Self Love & Empowerment” presented by motivational speaker Autumn Rose “Miskweminanocauq” Williams on Monday, Nov. 6.

Penn State Berks reserves the right to limit the photography and/or recording of any program. The permitted or prohibited activities during a particular program will be announced at the beginning of the event and/or included in the printed program. All media requesting interviews and/or access to photograph and/or tape any program must contact the Office of Strategic Communications at 610-396-6053.

This event is sponsored by the Penn State Berks Arts and Lecture series. For more information, contact the Office of Campus Life at 610-396-6076.