Movement expert Daniel Wolpert on the relationship between brain and body: “Our brains map our own body’s motions and correct our perception. That’s why you can’t tickle yourself.” Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED

Sheril Kirshenbaum talks about the science behind an ancient behavior, kissing: “We’re interpreting the world through our mouths more than we realize.” Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED

Hosain Rahman introduces UP, a wrist band that uses sophisticated sensor technology to track sleep and nutrition — and enables the data to be shared online. Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED

Roboticist Péter Fankhauser demos Rezero, a highly agile robot that balances atop a ball. Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED

Techno-illusionist Marco Tempest brings stick figures to life in a custom-designed interactive performance. Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED

Jae Rhim Lee “trains” mushrooms to eat bodies after they’re buried. In her work she aims to shift culture toward “a radical acceptance of death and decomposition.” Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED

Forceful soul singer Alice Russell launches into a stunning rendition of “Citizens.” Photo: James Duncan Davidson / TED