Soul Dust: The Magic of Consciousness

By: Nicholas Humphrey

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Synopsis: How is consciousness possible? What biological purpose does it serve? And why do we value it so highly? In Soul Dust, the psychologist Nicholas Humphrey, a leading figure in consciousness research, proposes a startling new theory. Consciousness, he argues, is nothing less than a magical-mystery show that we stage for ourselves inside our own heads. This self-made show lights up the world for us and makes us feel special and transcendent. Thus consciousness paves the way for spirituality, and allows us, as human beings, to reap the rewards, and anxieties, of living in what Humphrey calls the "soul niche." Tightly argued, intellectually gripping, and a joy to read, Soul Dust provides answers to the deepest questions. It shows how the problem of consciousness merges with questions that obsess us all--how life should be lived and the fear of death. Resting firmly on neuroscience and evolutionary theory, and drawing a wealth of insights from philosophy and literature, Soul Dust is an uncompromising yet life-affirming work--one that never loses sight of the majesty and wonder of consciousness.

Book Quality:: Publisher Quality
ISBN-13:: 9780691138626
Related ISBNs:: 9781849162371
Publisher:: Princeton University Press
Date of Addition:: 03/08/11
Copyrighted By:: Princeton University Press
Adult content:: No
Language:: English
Has Image Descriptions:: No
Categories:: Nonfiction, Science, Health, Mind and Body, Psychology, Philosophy
Submitted By:: Bookshare Staff
Usage Restrictions:: This is a copyrighted book.