Who's In Charge

Free Will and the Science of the Brain

Michael Gazzaniga

Recommended By

Book Reviews

Book Synopsis

"Who's In Charge" by Michael Gazzaniga is a thought-provoking and enlightening exploration of the complexities of human consciousness and free will. Drawing on his expertise as a leading neuroscientist, Gazzaniga challenges traditional notions of personal responsibility in the face of scientific discoveries about the brain.

In this captivating book, Gazzaniga delves into the fascinating world of neuroscience, shedding light on the intricate workings of the brain and how they relate to our sense of self and agency. He examines the impact of research on split-brain patients, who have had the connection between their brain hemispheres severed, revealing surprising results that challenge the idea of a unified and coherent self.

Through engaging anecdotes and rigorous scientific evidence, Gazzaniga dismantles long-held beliefs about free will, arguing that our actions are not solely determined by conscious decision-making but are instead influenced by myriad unconscious processes. He explores the influential role of genetics, environment, and brain activity, highlighting the intricate interplay of these factors in shaping our behavior.

With clear and concise prose, Gazzaniga skillfully navigates the complex terrain of neurobiology, presenting complex ideas in a way that is accessible and compelling. He encourages readers to rethink their assumptions about personal responsibility and moral judgment, urging a more nuanced understanding of the intricate dance between biology and behavior.

"Who's In Charge" challenges readers to contemplate the implications of the latest research in neuroscience for our legal systems, societal structures, and personal beliefs. Gazzaniga provokes thought and ignites conversation, ultimately inviting us to grapple with the age-old question: who, or what, is truly in charge of our actions?

Explore More Books

See All
The Kelly Capital Growth Investment Criterion
Tree Crops
Obvious Adams
The Cancer Code
In Other Words
A Writer's Time
Hacks
Hansel and Gretel
Sailing Alone Around The World
The Fourth Part of the World
Seeing Like a State
The Lifecycle of Software Objects
King, Warrior, Magician, Lover
Slow Sex
The Smartest Investment Book You'll Ever Read
America's War for the Greater Middle East
The Price of Peace
Conquest, Tribute & Trade
How To Talk to Anyone
The Machine Stops
Sustainable Materials With Both Eyes Open
The Extension of Man
Leadership
East of Eden
In Defense of Food
Virtual Economies
Why Nations Fail
Bowling Alone
Goethe’s Poems and Aphorisms
How To Be a No Limit Person
Cashing in on the American Dream
The Rosie Project
Extreme Ownership
Eco-Farm
The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck
The Fabric of Reality
War
Bargaining for Advantage
Fallout
Silently Seduced
Wing Leader
A Woman Makes a Plan
Metamagical Themas
More Than Enough
The Blue Sweater
The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life
Infinite Powers
The Remains Of The Day
Just Kids
There Must Be A Pony In Here Somewhere
The New One Minute Manager
Stuff Matters
The Plus, Self-Help for People Who Hate Self-Help
Lolita
Start With Why
Dreamstate
This Is How They Tell Me The World Ends
What School Could Be
Creativity and the Brain
The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership
Wild
Mindware
Mean Genes
The Fabric of Civilization
The Professor, the Banker, and the Suicide King
Mindfulness
Zucked
Vasistha's Yoga
The Art of War
The Sandman
Pre-Suasion
Mindstorms
Being Wrong
The Most Important Thing Illuminated
McMafia
Self Belief
Rational Ritual
Origin Story
Ladies and Gentlemen - Lenny Bruce!!
The Bully Pulpit
A History of the English-Speaking Peoples
The Unincorporated Man
Use of Weapons
The Art of People
Your Keys Our Home
How To Win Friends and Influence People
Forward the Foundation
Unsavory Truth
The Spider Network
The Truth Machine
Defender In Chief
The Ordeal of Civility
The Autobiography of Gucci Mane
Never Eat Alone
The Warren Buffett Portfolio
Absolute Tao
Modern Aramaic (Assyrinan/Syriac) Dictionary
The Four Agreements
White Working Class
The Seat of the Soul