The Ego Tunnel
The Science of the Mind and the Myth of the Self
Contributors
Also available from:
- On Sale
- Jul 27, 2010
- Page Count
- 288 pages
- Publisher
- Basic Books
- ISBN-13
- 9780465020690
Examine the inner workings of the mind and learn what consciousness and a sense of self really means – and if it even exists.
We’re used to thinking about the self as an independent entity, something that we either have or are. In The Ego Tunnel, philosopher Thomas Metzinger claims otherwise: No such thing as a self exists. The conscious self is the content of a model created by our brain-an internal image, but one we cannot experience as an image. Everything we experience is “a virtual self in a virtual reality.”But if the self is not “real,” why and how did it evolve? How does the brain construct it? Do we still have souls, free will, personal autonomy, or moral accountability? In a time when the science of cognition is becoming as controversial as evolution, The Ego Tunnel provides a stunningly original take on the mystery of the mind.
Genre:
-
Library Journal
Metzinger's intended audience is the lay reader, and he does a superb job of presenting his theory and introducing philosophical issues related to consciousness.”
Booklist
"Groundbreaking. This sophisticated understanding of the brain as an ego machine accounts remarkably well for the lived experience of being someone, a someone who transforms a bombardment of stimuli into a seamless present while still engaging in off-line planning for the future and reflection on the past."
Bookforum
Metzinger is crisp in his arguments and has a keen appreciation of essential ideas.”
Formats and Prices
Price
$19.99Price
$25.99 CADFormat
Format:
- Trade Paperback $19.99 $25.99 CAD
- ebook $12.99 $16.99 CAD
Newsletter Signup
By clicking ‘Sign Up,’ I acknowledge that I have read and agree to Hachette Book Group’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use