The Runaway Species: How Human Creativity Remakes the World

Description

Our relentless drive to create makes us unique among living creatures. What is special about the human brain that enables us to innovate? Why don't cows choreograph dances? Why don't squirrels build elevators to their treetops? Why don't alligators invent speedboats? Weaving together the arts and sciences, neuroscientist David Eagleman and composer Anthony Brandt explore the need for novelty, the simulation of possible futures, and the social components that drive the inventiveness of our species. Taking us on a tour of human creativity from Picasso to concept cars to umbrellas to lunar travel, Brandt and Eagleman explore the cognitive software that generates new ideas, and illuminate the key facets of a creative mentality. Through understanding our ability to innovate - our most profound, mysterious, and deeply human capacity - we can meet the challenge of remaking our constantly shifting world.

David Eagleman, Ph.D. is a neuroscientist at the Baylor College of Medicine, where he directs the Laboratory for Perception and Action as well as the Initiative on Neuroscience and Law. His scientific research is published in journals from Science to Nature, and his previous books include the international bestsellers Incognito and Sum.

* David Eagleman is a brilliant neuroscientist, a bestselling author and a man of enormous discernment The Sunday Times * The hottest thing in neuroscience The Times * The rock star of neuroscience Telegraph * A well-written popular science book, with a clear narrative, friendly explanations that respect both the lay-reader's intelligence and their ignorance, and a plethora of weird facts that make you nudge the person next to you and say 'Listen to this! Independent on Sunday on Incognito * Eagleman provides an excellent overview of the workings of our most vital organ Sunday Times on Incognito * You will not read a more dazzling book this year -- STEPHEN FRY on Sum