This conversation looks at how Polyvagal Theory is transformative, helping us better understand human interaction - and in so doing also helping us grasp the subliminal ways we respond to our surroundings. In this free-ranging talk with architect Ann Sussman, Dr. Porges explains how appreciating the mechanisms that drive our emotional states has relevance to other fields outside biology and psychology – including architecture. For humans always looking for attachment, a building façade can be seen as a 'surrogate' for a face. When buildings present blank glass facades, like many downtown cityscapes today, it's interesting to see that they don't attract social interaction. When buildings have face-like facades, on the other hand, with symmetrical windows that might suggest eyes, we are subliminally attracted, the space becomes one in which people tend to meet as it makes us feel safe and at home. Join Ann Sussman and Dr. Porges as they explore the connection between our social engagement systems and the effect building design has on us as individuals, as well as a society. Students will have access to the course for 180 days from the date of registration.