Incognito

The Secret Lives of the Brain

By: David Eagleman

Narrated by: David Eagleman

Length: 8 hrs and 49 mins

Publisher's summary

If the conscious mind - the part you consider to be you - is just the tip of the iceberg, what is the rest doing?

In this sparkling and provocative new book, the renowned neuroscientist David Eagleman navigates the depths of the subconscious brain to illuminate surprising mysteries: Why can your foot move halfway to the brake pedal before you become consciously aware of danger ahead? Why do you hear your name being mentioned in a conversation that you didn’t think you were listening to? What do Ulysses and the credit crunch have in common? Why did Thomas Edison electrocute an elephant in 1916? Why are people whose names begin with J more likely to marry other people whose names begin with J? Why is it so difficult to keep a secret? And how is it possible to get angry at yourself - who, exactly, is mad at whom?

Taking in brain damage, plane spotting, dating, drugs, beauty, infidelity, synesthesia, criminal law, artificial intelligence, and visual illusions, Incognito is a thrilling subsurface exploration of the mind and all its contradictions.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2011 David Eagleman (P)2011 Random House

Critic reviews

"Eagleman has a talent for testing the untestable, for taking seemingly sophomoric notions and using them to nail down the slippery stuff of consciousness.” (The New Yorker)

“Your mind is an elaborate trick, and mastermind David Eagleman explains how the trick works with great lucidity and amazement. Your mind will thank you.” (Wired magazine)

“A fun read by a smart person for smart people...it will attract a new generation to ponder their inner workings.” (New Scientist)

great<br />

I felt it was a great introduction to neuroscience as well as adding practical application.

an introspective into one own workings

why do we do the things we do? Did i write this in my own mind before I composed it on this keyboard? Fid "I" even write it? it's a great journey through the human mind and the pieces that make us, us.

very mind opening

I really love this book and I also recommend no self no problem by Chris Neibauer

thank you

i now understand the hman brain better.. i wll have now work by chapters ..total enjoyed again thank you

Great even handed incite

This is well done. I enjoy audio books on the way the brain works. This one covers aspects others do not cover in the same way or detail and yet it is very understandable and fair. I say fair because it takes into account interpretation with respect to what we know based on facts but allows for more than just one way to make sense of the facts with regard to nature vs nurture.

Facinating!!

Made me realize, that I'm capable of so much more that I ever thought I am. this life is our chance to get to discover who we really. Look in the mirror and meet...... "You"

Amazing! I would recommend this to you.

This book is fascinating. It's an amazing view of the brain and our consciousness. It's illuminating, wonderful and fascinating. It's fun to read and you will have a deeper understanding of your own biology and psychology.

He also does a wonderful job of narrating the book. Powerfully spoken.

Unmasking the Hidden Wonders of the Mind

"David Eagleman's 'Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain' is an exhilarating expedition into the depths of the subconscious mind. Eagleman expertly navigates the terrain of our brain's intricate processes, shedding light on the fascinating mysteries that underpin our daily actions, behaviors, and decisions.

In 'Incognito,' Eagleman straddles the lines between neuroscience, psychology, philosophy, and cognitive science, and yet, manages to deliver his theories in an engaging and comprehensible manner. His writing style is fluid and accessible, turning complex scientific theories into digestible information that resonates with both experts and lay readers alike.

Each page of 'Incognito' is imbued with revelatory insights and backed by a wealth of research. Eagleman's adept use of fascinating case studies and thought-provoking thought experiments further amplify the impact of his theories, making for an incredibly compelling read.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing aspects of 'Incognito' is Eagleman's exploration of the subconscious and its role in shaping our lives. His assertion that our conscious minds are just the 'tip of the iceberg' prompts profound introspection, challenging us to reconsider our understanding of selfhood and personal agency.

In summary, 'Incognito' is not just a book; it is an invitation to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery. It is a testament to Eagleman's talent as a writer and his prowess as a scientist that he could create a work that is as intellectually stimulating as it is thoroughly enjoyable. This book is an absolute must-read for anyone curious about the wonders of the human brain and the hidden processes that make us who we are."

Amazing insight - the depth and simplicity

Time well spent. Enjoyed every page of insightful and valuable research. I highly recommend reading this book.

The Neil deGrasse Tyson of Neuroscience!!

The author narrates this book- which as we all know can be problematic. Not in this case... Just like Neil deGrasse David pulled this reader in first with his enthusiasm for his chosen topic, second with his ability to make it understandable for a non expert in the field and third in his ability to make it relevant to her everyday life.

Kudo's!