Technology theorist discusses the future of communication at first annual John Beardsley lecture

In 2001, Michael Chorost went completely deaf and had a computer implanted into his head to allow him to hear again. Now, more than 10 years and two books later, Chorost gives his unique perspective about how technology changes communication as part of the first annual John Beardsley Lecture at the Humphrey School of Public Affairs on the University of Minnesota’s West Bank campus at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6.

In his first book, "Rebuilt: My Journey Back to the Hearing World," Chorost chronicles his experience and writes about how his cochlear implant enabled him to enhance his creative potential as a human being. Now, his second book, "World Wide Mind: The Coming Integration of Humanity, Machines, and the Internet," he proposes that humanity can incorporate computers in a way that enhances communication and creative work.

The John Beardsley Lecture is held in honor of the late public relations guru and former CEO at Padilla Speer Beardsley in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Beardsley’s mantra was to never quit learning and looking to the future, and in this fashion, the lecture looks to future innovations and mindsets.

$25 for students with ID; $50 for general public
Thursday, Oct. 6
Cocktail hour and appetizers: 5:30-7 p.m.
Lecture: 7-8:30 p.m.
Humphrey School of Public Affairs, 130 Humphrey Center
301 19th Ave. S., Minneapolis