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I am Not a Brain

Philosophy of Mind for the 21st Century
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( 219 ratings, 30 reviews)
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
I am Not a Brain by Markus Gabriel explores the limitations of materialistic views of human consciousness by challenging the concept that we are merely our brains. Gabriel delves into the nature of human identity and thought, advocating for a broader understanding beyond just neural activity. This philosophical inquiry encourages readers to reflect on the essence of being and the mind's role in perceiving the world.
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Format: Hardback
$15000

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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?

This philosophical and psychological exploration may appeal to you if you're intrigued by the nature of consciousness and the mind-body problem. The author questions prevailing scientific views, challenging the idea that our essence is purely linked to our brains. If you enjoy contemplating the mysteries of human identity and the limits of scientific explanation, this book could be a captivating read.

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Many consider the nature of human consciousness to be one of the last great unsolved mysteries.

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

Many consider the nature of human consciousness to be one of the last great unsolved mysteries. Why should the light turn on, so to speak, in human beings at all? And how is the electrical storm of neurons under our skull connected with our consciousness? Is the self only our brain’s user interface, a kind of stage on which a show is performed that we cannot freely direct?

In I am Not a Brain, philosopher Markus Gabriel challenges an increasing trend in the sciences towards neurocentrism, a notion which rests on the assumption that the self is identical to the brain. Gabriel raises serious doubts as to whether we can know ourselves in this way. In a sharp critique of this approach, he presents a new defence of free will and provides a timely introduction to philosophical thought about the self – all with verve, humour, and surprising insights.

Gabriel criticises the scientific image of the world and takes us on an eclectic journey of self-reflection by way of such concepts as self, consciousness, and freedom, with the aid of Kant, Schopenhauer, and Nagel, but also Dr. Who, The Walking Dead, and Fargo.

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?

I am Not a Brain by Markus Gabriel is praised for offering a highly engaging and accessible critique of reductive neuroscience, presenting a compelling defence of subjectivity. Critics admire Gabriel's ability to philosophise from first principles, combining lucid arguments with lively examples and references to popular culture, making the book both profound and enjoyable. Renowned voices highlight the book as a bold statement in 21st-century humanism, emphasising Gabriel's unique ability to engage with both specialists and general readers.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781509514755

Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Ltd

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 08 September 2017

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Polity Press

Contributors:

  • Translated by Christopher Turner

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 28.0mm

Width: 160.0mm

Height: 234.0mm

Weight: 499g

Pages: 240

About the Author

Markus Gabriel was born in 1980 and studied in Heidelberg, Lisbon and New York. Since 2009 he has held the chair for Epistemology at the University of Bonn; and with this appointment he became Germany's youngest philosophy professor. He is also the director of the International Center for Philosophy in Bonn.

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