Brain Facts
A
PRIMER ON THE BR AIN AND NERVOUS SYSTEM
THE
SOCIET Y FOR NEUROSCIENCE
The Society for Neuroscience is the world’s largest
organization of scientists and physicians dedicated to understanding the brain,
spinal cord and peripheral nervous system.
Neuroscientists investigate the molecular and cellular
levels of the nervous system; the neuronal systems responsible for
sensory and motor function; and the basis of higher order
processes, such as cognition and emotion. This research provides the basis for
understanding the medical fields that are concerned with treating
nervous system disorders. These medical specialties include
neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry and ophthalmology.
Founded in 1970, the Society has grown from 500
charter members to more than 29,000 members. Regular members are
residents of Canada,
Mexico and the United States—where more than 100
chapters organize local activities. The Society’s membership also
includes many scientists from throughout the world, particularly Europe and
Asia.
The purposes of the Society are to:
- Advance the understanding of the nervous system by
bringing together scientists from various backgrounds and by encouraging
research in all aspects of neuroscience.
- Promote education in the neurosciences.
- Inform the public about the results and implications
of new research.
The exchange of scientific information occurs at an
annual fall meeting that presents more than 14,000 reports of new
scientific findings and includes more than 25,000 participants.
This meeting, the largest of its kind in the world, is the arena
for the presentation of new results in neuroscience.
The Society’s bimonthly journal, The Journal of
Neuroscience, contains articles spanning the entire range of neuroscience
research and has subscribers worldwide. A series of courses,
workshops and symposia held at the annual meeting promote the education of
Society members. The Neuroscience Newsletter informs
members about Society activities.
A major mission of the Society is to inform the public
about the progress and benefits of neuroscience research. The
Society provides information about neuroscience to school teachers and
encourages its members to speak to young people about the human brain
and nervous system.
