Descartes' Error

Nov 1, 2024 4:41 PM

Author:Antonio Damasio

Descartes' Error

In the centuries since Descartes famously proclaimed, 'I think, therefore I am,' science has often overlooked emotions as the source of a person's true being. Even modern neuroscience has tended until recently to concentrate on the cognitive aspects of brain function, disregarding emotions. This attitude began to change with the publication of Descartes' Error. Antonio Damasio challenged traditional ideas about the connection between emotions and rationality. In this wonderfully engaging book, Damasio takes the reader on a journey of scientific discovery through a series of case studies, demonstrating what many of us have long suspected: emotions are not a luxury, they are essential to rational thinking and to normal social behaviour.

Reviews

A thought-provoking account

—— New Scientist

Rich in provocative concepts about intelligence, memory, creativity and passion

—— Los Angeles Times

idiosyncratic and engaging

—— The Times

Damasio is a profound thinker and an elegant writer...Descartes' Error is a fascinating exploration of the biology of reason and its inseparable dependence on emotion

—— Oliver Sacks

Crucial reading

—— New York Times Book Review

Excellent - gives one the interest and confidence to start negotiating.

—— Irish Independent

The best negotiation book of all time.

—— Inc Magazine

A superb how-to book.

—— Kirkus Reviews

a great book...if you need to be reminded that there is value to be discovered in experiences when they seem nothing but pointless and painful, and choices to be made when you think you have none, I'd recommend it

—— Lauren Laverne

One wishes this book could get into the hands of all the suffering children who need it

—— Washington Post

This story of unfathomable child abuse is told with remarkable wit, compassion, and courage

—— Augusten Burroughs, author of Running with Scissors

Highly articulate … Her memories are real, not recovered

—— The Times

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