Academic work
I hold postgraduate research degrees in philosophy and cognitive science from The University of Edinburgh (2011) and Birkbeck College (2018). My most recent thesis argued that diagrams in science offer a richer and more complex embodiment of scientific concepts and certain explanations than is possible in text alone. I've been developing these ideas in my creative practice, for example applying these ideas to visual storytelling in my graphic novel. I'm also in the early stages of developing an art installation that is an exploration of spatial perception. My other academic interests include early-modern philosophy of science, theories of explanation, the evolution of cognition and philosophy of physics.
Education
2002 - 2005
BA Hons (first class) Design for Stage, Central School of Speech and Drama, London
2010 - 2011
MSc Philosophy & Cognitive Science, University of Edinburgh, Scotland
2013 - 2015; 2018
MRes Philosophy (distinction), Birkbeck Collage, London
(Interrupted due to bereavement)
Writing
2018
Vassie, K. (2018). Can visual artefacts be useful scientific models? (Unpublished research master's thesis). Birkbeck College, London, UK.
2012
Vassie K., Morlino G. (2012). Natural and Artificial Systems: Compare, Model or Engineer?. In: Ziemke T., Balkenius C., Hallam J. (eds) From Animals to Animats 12. SAB 2012. Lecture Notes in Computer Science, vol 7426. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg
2011
Vassie, K. (2012). Systems thinking and theories of inheritance (Unpublished master's thesis). Edinburgh University, UK.
2011
Vassie, K. (2011) What mechanism ensures consistent outcomes at past time travel destinations? (Unpublished research paper). Edinburgh University, UK.