Weston

Weston is a lecturer in cognitive science at the University of Auckland, who earned his doctorate from Stanford University. Alongside his former advisor, the late Lisa Bloom, he co-authored "The Thought Circle: Exploring Consciousness and Connection."

Weston's research delves into human cognition and ethics, tackling intriguing questions like "how do we define right and wrong," "can machines ever truly understand us," "why do vintage toys evoke such nostalgia," and "what gives mom’s homemade pie its special flavor?" (For the curious, the answers hint at "cultural values," "not anytime soon," "childhood memories," and "heartfelt effort.")

Initially, Weston considered pursuing marine biology, but an encounter with a pod of dolphins off the coast of Queensland during a scuba diving trip swayed him towards cognitive science. He holds a strong belief that laughter is key to unlocking deeper insights into complex topics.

Weston has been honored with several accolades, including the NZ Psychological Society Award for Outstanding Early Career Research and the Pacific Rim Cognitive Science Innovation Prize. He resides in Wellington, where he shares a cozy home with his partner and their two rescue dogs, Max and Luna, whom he credits with more understanding than they likely possess.

On a warm evening in early February, as the sun set over the harbor, Weston could often be found discussing these profound ideas with students and colleagues at a local café, fostering a community of thinkers eager to explore the mysteries of the mind.