Consciousness: An Introduction - Softcover

Blackmore, Susan

Softcover

ISBN 10: 144410487X ISBN 13: 9781444104875

Publisher: Routledge, 2010

Synopsis

Is there a theory that explains the essence of consciousness? Or is consciousness itself just an illusion? The 'last great mystery of science', consciousness is a topic that was banned from serious research for most of the last century, but is now an area of increasing popular interest, as well as a rapidly expanding area of study for students of psychology, philosophy and neuroscience. This ground-breaking textbook by best-selling author Susan Blackmore was the first of its kind to bring together all the major theories of consciousness studies, from those based on neuroscience to those based on quantum theory or Eastern philosophy.

The book examines topics such as how subjective experiences arise from objective brain processes, the basic neuroscience of consciousness, altered states of consciousness, out of body and near death experiences and the effects of drugs, dreams and meditation. It also explores the nature of self, the possibility of artificial consciousness in robots, and the question of whether animals are conscious.

The new edition has been fully revised to include the latest developments in neuroscience, brain scanning techniques, and artificial consciousness and robotics. The new website includes self-assessment exercises, advanced further reading, flashcards and MCQs.

For all those intrigued by what it means to be, to exist, this book could radically transform your understanding of your own consciousness.

About this title

About the Author

Susan Blackmore is visiting Professor of Psychology, University of Plymouth

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 144410487X
• ISBN 13: 9781444104875
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 560