Incognito

In Incognito, David Eagleman explores the power of the unconscious mind. He suggests that our conscious mind is just the tip of the iceberg, and the majority of our decisions, actions, and emotions are driven by the unseen depths of our unconscious mind. It's like there's a hidden boss inside our brain, making decisions without us even knowing it.

Eagleman takes a look at the intersection of neuroscience and the legal system. He argues that understanding the brain can help us create a more compassionate and effective legal system. For example, if someone's brain is wired in a way that makes them more likely to commit crimes, should they be punished in the same way as someone who chooses to do wrong?

The book also explores the concept of neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to change and adapt. This means that we're not stuck with the brain we're born with, we can train it and improve it. So, if you've ever thought you're not smart enough or creative enough, this book will make you think again.

Incognito digs into the idea that our perception of reality is not always accurate. Our brain filters and interprets information based on our past experiences and biases. So, what we see, hear, and feel might not be the whole truth. This can be a bit scary, but also incredibly fascinating.

Finally, Eagleman researches one of the biggest mysteries of all - consciousness. He suggests that consciousness is not a single thing, but a collection of different processes happening in our brain. It's like a symphony, with different parts playing together to create our experience of being aware and alive.