Antonio Damasio Speaking Fee: $50,000 to $75,000

Antonio Damasio is a distinguished neuroscientist and internationally acclaimed expert in the field of brain research, serving as the Director of the Brain and Creativity Institute at the University of Southern California. With a career spanning over four decades, Damasio has made groundbreaking contributions to the understanding of how emotions affect decision-making and behavior. Born in Lisbon, Portugal, in 1944, he pursued his medical degree and neuroscience training at the University of Lisbon Medical School, where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors in exploring the intricate workings of the human brain. Damasio’s illustrious career has been marked by a series of pioneering studies that have profoundly influenced the fields of neuroscience, psychology, and even philosophy. His work notably focuses on the relationship between emotions, consciousness, and the neurobiological processes that underpin them. One of his major contributions is the somatic marker hypothesis, which suggests that emotions play a critical role in rational decision-making. This hypothesis has reshaped how scientists perceive the link between cognitive and emotional processes. In addition to his academic contributions, Damasio is a prolific author, having penned several influential books that make complex neuroscientific concepts accessible to a broader audience. His works, such as "Descartes’ Error," "The Feeling of What Happens," and "Self Comes to Mind," have not only garnered critical acclaim but have also sparked widespread interest in how the brain creates the mind. Through these publications, he has skillfully bridged the gap between scientific research and public understanding of neuroscience. Throughout his career, Antonio Damasio has received numerous accolades and honors, underscoring his impact in the scientific community. He is a member of several esteemed institutions, including the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. A recipient of numerous awards, he continues to influence contemporary thought on the nature of consciousness and the human condition. Beyond his research and writing, Damasio is a passionate advocate for the integration of neuroscience with other fields, such as the arts and humanities. His leadership at the Brain and Creativity Institute reflects this interdisciplinary approach, fostering collaborations that explore the interplay between brain science and cultural phenomena. Through his work, Antonio Damasio remains a vital voice in the conversation about what it means to be human, tirelessly exploring the depths of the mind and enriching our understanding of ourselves.