Registration Link: For HKU members / For non-HKU members
MH Conversations and Connections Series – Lunchtime Seminar
Title: Gods and monsters: Greek mythology and Christian references in the neurosurgical lexicon
Date: 20 Feb 2025 (Thur)
Time: 12:30 – 1:45 pm HKT
Venue: Rm 609, 6/F, William M W Mong Block,21 Sassoon Road
Registration Link: For HKU members / For non-HKU members
Abstract:
The intersection of mythology and religion with neuroscience presents a fascinating tapestry of language, culture, and medical practice. This talk aims to explore the rich etymological roots of neuroanatomical terms derived from ancient myths and religious narratives, providing insights into how these stories have shaped our understanding of the human brain and its functions.
Understanding these terms within their mythological context enriches our appreciation of neuroanatomy. Myths serve not only as historical narratives but also as frameworks through which ancient civilizations attempted to explain complex phenomena such as consciousness, memory, and identity. By examining these connections, we can gain insights into how early thinkers perceived the brain’s role in the human experience.
This talk will engage a lay audience by demystifying neuroanatomical terminology through storytelling, making complex concepts accessible while celebrating the rich heritage of human thought that continues to influence modern medicine.
Speaker:
Dr Peter WOO
MBBS, MMedSc, FRCS (Edin), FCSHK, FHKAM
Consultant, Neurosurgery, Prince of Wales Hospital
Biosketch:
Dr Peter Woo completed his undergraduate medical education in 2004 at the University of Hong Kong. Following the completion of his neurosurgery residency training in 2012. He also received a Master in Medical Sciences from the University of Hong Kong.
Dr Woo’s clinical interests are in surgical neuro-oncology especially with regard to high-grade gliomas. As an Esther Wu Memorial Fund and GB Ong Travelling Grant recipient, he embarked on a visiting scholarship at the University of California San Francisco’s Department of Neurosurgery under the leadership of Professor Mitchel Berger, a world-leader in this field. His research endeavors involve investigating the patho-mechanisms and behavior of temozolamide-resistant glioblastoma. He is the Honorary Secretary of the College of Surgeons of Hong Kong, immediate-past President of the Hong Kong Neuro-oncology Society, Executive Council member of the Asian Society of Neuro-oncology, Chairman of the Neuro-oncology Subcommittee of the Hong Kong Hospital Authority Coordinating Committee for Neurosurgery, Associate Director of the Otto Wong Brain Tumor Center, The Chinese University of Hong Kong and Founder of the Hong Kong Brain Tumor Patient Support Group. Dr Woo is actively involved in neurosurgical training as an elected Neurosurgery Specialty Board member of the Hong Kong College of Surgeons, Honorary Clinical Associate Professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Convener of the Hong Kong Olympia Academy, a medical student clinical neurosciences research laboratory. In 2020, he was awarded the Hong Kong Hospital Authority Young Achiever of the Year.
Welcome to join us!
Enquiry: Please contact Mr Edison Cheng (mehu@hku.hk).