A Pelican Introduction the Domesticated Brain
Unknown
By: Bruce Hood
Why do we care what others think? What keeps us bound together? How does the brain shape our behaviour? Bruce Hood is an award-winning psychologist who has researched and taught at Cambridge and Harvard Universities and is currently Director of the Cognitive Development Centre at the University of Bristol. He delivered the Royal Institution's Christmas Lectures in 2011 and is the author of The Self Illusion and Supersense, described by New Scientist as 'important, crystal clear and utterly engaging'.
AI Overview
"A Pelican Introduction: The Domesticated Brain" by Bruce Hood is a book that delves into the intricacies of human behavior and cognition, exploring how our brains shape our actions and interactions. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Social Influence: The book examines why humans are so influenced by what others think, and how this social influence affects our behavior.
- Cognitive Biases: It discusses various cognitive biases that influence our decision-making processes and perceptions.
- Evolutionary Psychology: Hood explores how evolutionary principles have shaped our brains and behaviors.
- Neuroscience: The book delves into the neural mechanisms underlying human behavior, including the role of emotions, social cognition, and memory.
- Culture and Behavior: It investigates how culture influences our behavior and how our brains adapt to cultural norms.
Plot Summary
The book is structured as an introduction to the field of psychology, specifically focusing on the domesticated brain. Hood begins by explaining why humans are so concerned with what others think, which he attributes to our evolved social nature. He then explores various psychological phenomena, such as the power of social influence, the role of cognitive biases in decision-making, and how our brains are wired to respond to social cues.
Throughout the book, Hood uses engaging examples and anecdotes to illustrate complex psychological concepts, making the subject matter accessible to a broad audience. He also draws on his extensive research experience to provide insights into the neural mechanisms underlying human behavior.
Critical Reception
While specific reviews for "A Pelican Introduction: The Domesticated Brain" are not provided in the search results, Bruce Hood is an award-winning psychologist known for his engaging and insightful writing style. His previous works have received positive reviews for their ability to explain complex psychological concepts in an accessible manner.
Given Hood's reputation and the popularity of his other books, it is likely that "A Pelican Introduction: The Domesticated Brain" has received positive feedback for its clarity, depth, and engaging storytelling.
Conclusion
"A Pelican Introduction: The Domesticated Brain" by Bruce Hood offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of human behavior and cognition. By examining key themes such as social influence, cognitive biases, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, and cultural influences on behavior, the book provides readers with a deeper understanding of how our brains shape our actions and interactions. The book's accessible style and engaging examples make it an excellent introduction to the field of psychology for both students and general readers.