The Biological Mind

Outline

The Biological Mind (2018) challenges the popular idea that the brain works like a computer and that we are simply our brains. Alan Jasanoff explains that the mind depends on the whole body, including chemistry, emotions, and interaction with the environment. He argues that seeing the brain as part of a living biological system gives a more accurate and useful understanding of health, behaviour, and identity.

• The popular picture of the brain as a computer is misleading, and The Biological Mind sets out to challenge it.
• You are not simply your brain, because the mind depends on the whole body.
• Body chemistry, emotions and contact with the environment all take part in shaping thought and experience.
• Alan Jasanoff treats the brain as one part of a living biological system, not a separate machine.
• Seeing the brain this way gives a more accurate and useful understanding of health, behaviour and identity.

Alan Jasanoff is an American neuroscientist and professor of biological engineering, brain and cognitive sciences, and nuclear science at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. His research develops new imaging tools to study how the brain works. The Biological Mind is his first book for general readers.