This book reveals a remarkable paradox: what your brain wants is frequently not what your brain needs. In fact, much of what makes our brains "happy" leads to errors, biases, and distortions, which make getting out of our own way extremely difficult. Author David DiSalvo presents evidence from evolutionary and social psychology, cognitive science, neurology, and even marketing and economics. And he interviews many of the top thinkers in psychology and neuroscience today. From this research-based platform, DiSalvo draws out insights that we can use to identify our brains' foibles and turn our awareness into edifying action. Ultimately, he argues, the research does not serve up ready-made answers, but provides us with actionable clues for overcoming the plight of our advanced brains and, consequently, living more fulfilled lives.

About the Author
David DiSalvo is a science, technology, and culture writer for Scientific American Mind, Psychology Today, and a number of other publications. He is the writer behind the well-regarded science blog Neuronarrative, which reaches more 100,000 readers in more than 200 countries.


Book Information
ISBN 9781616144838
Author David Disalvo
Format Paperback
Page Count 309
Imprint Prometheus Books
Publisher Prometheus Books
Weight(grams) 481g
Dimensions(mm) 229mm * 154mm * 23mm