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The Pattern Seekers

A New Theory of Human Invention
By Simon Baron-Cohen
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Pattern Seekers by Simon Baron-Cohen explores the human drive to seek out and create patterns, tracing its roots back to prehistoric times. The book examines how this innate ability has influenced the development of technology and invention throughout history. By analysing the link between autism and innovation, Baron-Cohen offers insights into why some individuals are naturally more adept at recognising and exploiting patterns than others.
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you're fascinated by the intersection of cognitive science and human innovation, you may enjoy this exploration of the unique ability humans have to discern patterns, which is intricately linked to our creativity and problem-solving skills. This book delves into how this skill set has driven technological and cultural advancements, while also exploring its implications for understanding autism. It could appeal to those interested in psychology, the evolution of human intelligence, and the roots of our creative capacities.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

'Celebrates human cognitive diversity, and is rich with empathy and psychological insight' — Steven Pinker

Why can humans alone invent? In this book, psychologist and world-renowned autism expert Simon Baron-Cohen puts forward a bold new theory: because we can identify patterns, specifically if-and-then patterns. He argues that the genes for this unique ability overlap with the genes for autism.

From the first musical instrument to the agricultural, industrial, and digital revolutions, Baron-Cohen shows how this unique ability has driven human progress for 70,000 years. By linking one of our greatest human strengths with a condition that is so often misunderstood, The Pattern Seekers challenges us to think differently about those who think differently.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Pattern Seekers by Simon Baron-Cohen has received praise for its ambitious and thought-provoking exploration of human cognitive diversity. The book delves into the idea that autism-associated traits have significantly contributed to human progress and innovation. Critics highlight its rich psychological insight and empathetic approach, celebrating the role of pattern-seeking minds in shaping modern civilization and calling for a greater appreciation of neurodiversity.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780141982397

Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 31 March 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Penguin Books Ltd

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 14.0mm

Width: 130.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 192g

Pages: 256

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About the Author

Simon Baron-Cohen is professor of psychology and psychiatry and Director of the Autism Research Centre at Cambridge University. He is the author of 600 scientific articles and four books, including Zero Degrees of Empathy and The Essential Difference.

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