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The Book of Minds

Understanding Ourselves and Other Beings, From Animals to Aliens

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The Book of Minds

By: Philip Ball
Narrated by: Philip Ball
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About this listen

This audio edition is captivatingly read by the author, Philip Ball.

‘Combining neurology, philosophy, computer science and artificial intelligence. . . a fascinating and illuminating account’ - The Guardian

Understanding the human mind and how it relates to the world of experience has challenged scientists and philosophers for centuries. How do we even begin to think about ‘minds’ that are not human? That is the question explored in this ground-breaking book. In The Book of Minds, Award-winning science writer Philip Ball argues that in order to understand our own minds and imagine those of others, we need to move on from considering the human mind as a standard against which all others should be measured.

Science has begun to have something to say about the properties of mind; the more we learn about the minds of other creatures, from octopuses to chimpanzees, to imagine the potential minds of computers and alien intelligences, the more we can begin to see our own, and the more we can understand the diversity of the human mind, in the widest of contexts. By understanding how minds differ, we can also best understand our own.

 Consciousness & Thought Neuroscience & Neuropsychology Philosophy Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Thought-Provoking
All stars
Most relevant
Far reaching and brings together many threads and areas of knowledge while remaining accessible. Will be listening to again and again.

Far reaching

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just listen to it. (or read it) brilliant engaging thought provoking, thouroghly enjoyable
two more words

seven stars

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A profoundly interesting and thoughtful book very well read with great fluency, conviction and authority by the author. One of Philip Ball's best, I think, and that's saying something. If this is your sort of thing, don't hesitate.

Excellent

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Such a wonderful book, very well narrated. Whilst being educational and inspiring in equal measure, it also opens the way for countless rabbit holes to explore further.

Educational and inspiring

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