Dr Julie Bakker's Lecture: My Response -- Asumi Nakamura

 

1. Summarise the argument about the causes of sex differences in brain and behaviour.
Dr. Julie Bakker argues that sex differences in behavior and brain function are primarily driven by kisspeptin neurons in the hypothalamus. 

2. The experience of attending a formal scientific lecture in the New Zealand context.

The lecture began with a Waiata (a Māori song), which was a fascinating cultural experience that is not typically seen in Japanese academic settings. It highlighted how deeply Māori culture is embraced within New Zealand’s scientific community. Furthermore, I noticed that students here seemed more focused on actively engaging with the content rather than just taking exhaustive notes for exams. This contrasts with the Japanese education system, where there is often a heavy emphasis on memorizing grammar and vocabulary to pass tests, rather than developing practical skills or pursuing personal interests.

3. Difficulties and assisting factors in understanding the content.

The primary challenge was the lack of familiarity with English technical terminology. In Japan, we can often infer the meaning of complex scientific terms through Kanji (Chinese characters), which provide visual clues. In an English-only environment, I found it difficult to predict meanings without prior knowledge of the jargon. 

4. The impact that scientists and researchers have on the world.

Through Dr. Bakker's research on human physiology, people can gain a deeper understanding of how their own bodies function. This "familiarity" with one's biological structure can provide a sense of relief and could even lead to the development of specific support systems or mental health practices tailored to our biological needs.

5. Future career considerations as a scientist or researcher.

I am not currently considering a career as a scientist or researcher. I have not developed a strong passion for mathematics or the sciences, and I feel that the highly repetitive and iterative nature of scientific research does not align with my personal interests. I prefer to apply knowledge in different fields rather than conducting primary research myself.