This talk was given at a local TEDx event, produced independently of the TED Conferences. Is technology usurping our human capacity for connection and understanding, or expanding our ability to know ourselves and those around us -- and so helping guide us to our highest selves? In this inspiring talk, Lauren Costantini explores what it means to be human in the age of the quantified self.

After focusing on treatments for Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and other brain diseases, Lauren’s lab at Harvard Medical School discovered breakthrough treatments, but they languished on the pages of medical journals. A move from academia to industry allowed her to translate these discoveries and successfully bring several products from bench to patients. But this still not fast enough; she then launched her consulting firm and worked with more than 40 startup companies, moving several therapeutics in parallel into the hands of those in need.

About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)