In 'The New Executive Brain', Elkhonon Goldberg delves into the vital role of the frontal lobes in navigating the complexities of modern life. He expertly intertwines neuroscience with practical insights, revealing how our brain's executive functions shape our decisions, social interactions, and creativity. Through captivating examples and groundbreaking research, Goldberg invites readers to explore the untapped potential of their own minds. As the world becomes increasingly intricate, understanding our cognitive capabilities is more crucial than ever. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of your brain's greatest executive powers?
By Elkhonon Goldberg
Published: 2009
"The ability to navigate complexity is not just a skill, but a testament to the power of our neural architecture and the potential of the human mind."
Elkhonon Goldberg's groundbreaking The Executive Brain was a classic of scientific writing, revealing how the frontal lobes command the most human parts of the mind. Now he offers a completely new book, providing fresh, iconoclastic ideas about the relationship between the brain and the mind.In The New Executive Brain, Goldberg paints a sweeping panorama of cutting-edge thinking in cognitive neuroscience and neuropsychology, one that ranges far beyond the frontal lobes. Drawing on the latest discoveries, and developing complex scientific ideas and relating them to real life through many fascinating case studies and anecdotes, the author explores how the brain engages in complex decision-making; how it deals with novelty and ambiguity; and how it addresses moral choices. At every step, Goldberg challenges entrenched assumptions. For example, we know that the left hemisphere of the brain is the seat of language--but Goldberg argues that language may not be the central adaptation of the left hemisphere. Apes lack language, yet many also show evidence of asymmetric hemispheric development. Goldberg also finds that a complex interaction between the frontal lobes and the amygdale--between a recently evolved and a much older part of the brain--controls emotion, as conscious thoughts meet automatic impulses. The author illustrates this observation with a personal example: the difficulty he experienced when trying to pick up a baby alligator he knew to be harmless, as his amygdala battled his effort to extend his hand.In the years since the original Executive Brain, Goldberg has remained at the front of his field, constantly challenging orthodoxy. In this revised and expanded edition, he affirms his place as one of our most creative and insightful scientists, offering lucid writing and bold, paradigm-shifting ideas.
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“The ability to navigate complexity is not just a skill, but a testament to the power of our neural architecture and the potential of the human mind.”
The New Executive Brain
By Elkhonon Goldberg
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Elkhonon Goldberg is a renowned neuroscientist and author known for his contributions to the understanding of brain function and cognition. He is the author of several notable works, including 'The Executive Brain: Frontal Lobes and the Civilized Mind' and 'The Wisdom Paradox: How Your Mind Can Grow Stronger as Your Brain Grows Older.' In his writings, Goldberg blends scientific insight with engaging storytelling, effectively communicating complex neurological concepts to both academic and general audiences. His writing style is characterized by clarity and accessibility, making difficult subjects approachable for readers.
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