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Cover

The Brain: A Very Short Introduction

Michael O'Shea

Publication Date - 16 February 2006

ISBN: 9780192853929

144 pages
Paperback
4-1/2 x 7 inches

In Stock

A non-technical introduction to the main issues and findings in current brain research

Description

The Brain: A Very Short Introduction provides a non-technical introduction to the main issues and findings in current brain research and gives a sense of how neuroscience addresses questions about the relationship between the brain and the mind. Short, clear discussions on the mechanical workings of the brain are offered and the details of brain science are covered in an accessible style. Explanations of the more familiar implications of the brain's actions, such as memories, perceptions, and motor control are integrated throughout the book. It has chapters on brain processes and the causes of "altered mental states," as well as a final chapter that discusses possible future developments in neuroscience, touching on artificial intelligence, gene therapy, the importance of the Human Genome Project, drugs by design, and transplants. Up-to-date coverage of the newest developments in brain research and suggestions for future research on the brain are also included.

About the Series: Combining authority with wit, accessibility, and style, Very Short Introductions offer an introduction to some of life's most interesting topics. Written by experts for the newcomer, they demonstrate the finest contemporary thinking about the central problems and issues in hundreds of key topics, from philosophy to Freud, quantum theory to Islam.

Features

  • Short, clear discussion on the mechanical workings of the brain
  • Covers the details of brain science in an accessible style
  • Up to date coverage of developments of brain research
  • Suggests directions future research might take
  • Integrates discussion of the more familiar implications of the brain's actions, such as memories, perceptions, and motor control

About the Author(s)

Michael O'Shea is Director of the Sussex Center for Neuroscience.

Table of Contents

    1. Mind and brain: what's the problelm?
    2. Let's get physical
    3. Sight, sound, and imagination
    4. "Last week's potatoes!"
    5. Perception to action
    6. Altered states of mind
    7. Where do we go from here?

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