Reality is made of illusions—and we need them | Susana Martinez-Conde | TEDxBermuda
Is what we see indeed reality? How do our perceptions of the world around us really affect our cognition? Susana Martinez-Conde is a neuroscientist, author, and professor at the State University of New York. Her research bridges perceptual, oculomotor, and cognitive neuroscience, and she is best known for her studies on illusions, eye movements and perception, neurological disorders, and attentional misdirection in stage magic. She has published over a hundred articles in prestigious scientific journals, including Nature, Nature Neuroscience, Neuron, and Proceedings of the National Academy of Science. Her discoveries have been featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, Wired, and many others.She organizes the annual Best Illusion of the Year contest, which inspired her most recent book, Champions of Illusion. Her first book, the bestseller Sleights of Mind, received the Prisma award for the best scientific book of the year.This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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- 10:12A photographer’s frame work for witnessing our shared humanity | Tony Menias | TEDxChicagoWhat happens when a doctor trades his stethoscope for a camera? Photodocumentarian Tony Menias reveals how slowing down transforms the way we see ourselves and each other. From medical missions to National Geographic, his decade-long journey captures life's hidden rhythms and our shared humanity. Through stunning imagery and raw reflection, Tony shows how everyday moments become visual poetry when we pause to truly notice. This talk invites you to witness the divine connections that surround us daily—teaching that when we see with our hearts, not just our eyes, strangers become family and chaos becomes peace. Driven by curiosity & fascination with the world, Tony's love of capturing life began when his father handed him his first camera at age seven. From medical school to global missions serving the impoverished, photography was his guiding light in finding beauty in the simplest things. Witnessing the resiliency of souls he treated inspired a life change. Tony left medicine to pursue his craft. Within his first year as a photographer, he was recognized by National Geographic, held multiple exhibitions, & won an Award for Excellence. Photography was no longer a hobby, but calling. Known under the artist name ‘Beloveful’, Tony's passion for capturing the raw & unfiltered aspects of life led him on a profound journey of self-discovery. With a keen eye for detail & unwavering commitment to authenticity, he portrays beauty & chaos equally. Whether capturing bustling markets, serene landscapes, or intimate daily moments, he conveys connection & commonality among people– the rhythm of life. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx




