How is consciousness possible? What biological purpose does it serve? Why do we value it so highly? In Soul Dust the psychologist Nicholas Humphrey, a leading figure in consciousness research, returns to the front-line with a startling new theory. Consciousness, he argues, is nothing less than a magical-mystery show that we stage for ourselves inside our own heads. This self-made show lights up the world for us, making us feel special and transcendent. Tightly argued, intellectually gripping and a joy to read, Soul Dust is a keenly anticipated book that provides answers to the deepest questions. It dovetails the 'hard problem of consciousness' with the matters that obsess us all - the fear of death, how life should be lived. Resting firmly on neuroscience and evolutionary theory, it is an uncompromising yet life-affirming work that never loses sight of the majesty and mystery of consciousness.

About the Author
Nicholas Humphrey is School Professor at the London School of Economics and Professor of Psychology at the New School for Social Research is a theoretical psychologist, internationally known for his work on the evolution of human intelligence and consciousness. He the only scientist ever to edit the literary journal Granta. His books include Consciousness Regained, The Inner Eye, A History of the Mind, Leaps of Faith, The Mind Made Flesh, and Seeing Red: A Study in Consciousness.

Reviews
'His book is not only thoroughly enjoyable but genuinely instructive too ... he has some really interesting and original ideas about consciousness' Alison Gopnik. * Alison Gopnik *
'I find the argument rather beautiful, and plausible ... it has the added merit of foregrounding the wonderfulness of the world' New Humanist. * New Humanist *
'Humphrey has laid out a new agenda for consciousness research' Michael Proulx, Science. * Science *
'A delightful and thought-provoking tour de force' Simon Blackburn. * Simon Blackburn *
'A beautifully written and highly original essay ... Humphrey wears his learning lightly but Soul Dust introduces the reader to many of the dominant scientific and philosophical ideas about consciousness' Standpoint. * Standpoint *
'It's exhilarating to see this crucial question about our existence answered with such intellectual breadth' Matt Ridley, Wall Street Journal. * Wall Street Journal *



Book Information
ISBN 9780857388292
Author Nicholas Humphrey
Format Paperback
Page Count 320
Imprint Quercus Publishing
Publisher Quercus Publishing
Weight(grams) 280g
Dimensions(mm) 196mm * 128mm * 26mm