Antonio Damasio Books
Antonio Damasio is the David Dornsife Professor of Neuroscience, Psychology and Philosophy at the University of Southern California. He is also director of the school’s Brain and Creativity Institute, where he specializes in researching the processes that govern emotions, feelings and consciousness. His previous books include Descartes’ Error, The Feeling of What Happens, Looking for Spinoza and Self Comes to Mind.
The Strange Order of Things
What's The Strange Order of Things about?
The Strange Order of Things (2018) takes us through the history of human cultural development while focusing on a motivating factor that often gets overlooked: our feelings. When accounting for the major innovations and developments of the past, we often credit human intelligence more than emotions and feelings. But as author Antonio Damasio argues, it’s our feelings that push us forward, inspire our creative accomplishments and define who we are.
Who should read The Strange Order of Things?
- Neuroscientists, evolutionary biologists, physicians and psychologists
- Curious minds interested in the emergence of human culture
- Anyone interested in the power of emotions
What's Descartes’ Error about?
Descartes’ Error (1995) turns conventional wisdom about the human mind on its head. Combining sophisticated neuroscience with fascinating case studies about patients with brain damage, it shows how the traditional dualisms of Western thought do not stand up to scrutiny. Reason depends on emotion, and the brain is intimately connected with the body.
Who should read Descartes’ Error?
- Rationalists skeptical of emotions
- Emotional people sick of being called irrational
- Anyone interested in the intersections between neuroscience, psychology, and philosophy
What's Descartes' Error about?
Descartes' Error by Antonio Damasio explores the relationship between emotions and reason, challenging the traditional view that they are separate and opposing forces. Through fascinating case studies and scientific evidence, Damasio argues that emotions are in fact crucial for decision-making and rational thinking. This thought-provoking book offers a new perspective on the human mind and the way we make choices.
Who should read Descartes' Error?
Individuals seeking to understand the interplay between emotions and rationality
People interested in the scientific exploration of the human mind and consciousness
Readers who enjoy thought-provoking and intellectually stimulating non-fiction