Cognitive Science Days showcased cognitive thinking and mysteries of music

CogSci Days took place on 4–5 June 2026 at the recently renovated main building of the University of Helsinki. The event brought together Finland’s cognitive science community to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and explore new directions in the field.

 

CogSci Days took place on 4–5 June 2026 at the recently renovated main building of the University of Helsinki. The event brought together Finland’s cognitive science community to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and explore new directions in the field. The event was organized by Finnish Cognitive Science Society together with University of Helsinki and AIdemoc. Prof. Pertti Saariluoma from University of Jyväskylä gave the first keynote talk with the title The fields and limits of cognitive thinking. He discussed the birth of modern cognitive science and the limits of discourses. Prof. Minna Huotilainen's keynote was entitled The mystery of music is intertwined in human history, learning and development. She discussed the human brain as a predictor and how our musical experiences are dependent on these predictions. She also discussed the brain areas that are involved in musical perceptions and actions, and the theories related to the origins and meanings of music. The days were filled with inspiring talks by senior researchers and PhD researchers.