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TEDxDuke to Focus on Globalization, Innovation

Duke's 2013 TEDx conference will focus on how technology encourages global collaboration but also increases potential for cultural conflict. Student organizers are holding TEDxDuke 2013: A Shrinking World, the university's third annual series of talks, on Saturday afternoon on West Campus.

"Duke is at the crossroads of a lot of different cultures," said Gavin Ovsak, a senior majoring in biomedical engineering and computer science, and one of the student organizers. "By having the theme be 'A Shrinking World,' we are discussing the potential for conflict and collaboration between cultures. That seems to be a lot of what the motto of Ted is about -- 'Ideas Worth Spreading.'"

TEDxDuke is modeled after the TED Conference on the West Coast of the United States held in the spring and the TEDGlobal summer conference held in Edinburgh, Scotland. Both bring together global leaders with expertise in a wide range of subjects, including science, business, the arts and other global issues.

TEDxDuke will feature speakers from both inside and outside the University, although the event is independently planned and organized by Duke students, Ovsak said. All of the talks are filmed and made available on YouTube, with the hope of sparking deep discussion and problem-solving in small groups.

When: Sat., April 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Where: Schiciano Auditorium in the CIEMAS Building Tickets are required. Cost: $15 for Duke students, $25 General Admission.

To learn more or register online, visit the TEDxDuke website.