|
No aspect of human nature fascinates us more than the mind and
its chief attribute, consciousness. Despite this fascination, the mind remains
the least understood of our characteristics. Is it possible
to explain the various phenomena that we collectively call "mind"? Once
we understand human consiousness, will we be able to incorporate it into a computer
as we are doing with intelligence? Is a human being just a very complicated machine?
What role does free will play in the functioning of the mind, and is it compatible
with the workings of the brain, which must follow physical laws? These are some
of the difficult -- and fascinating -- questions Dr. Harth addresses. Although
theories of mind and consciousness abound, most of them contain major flaws. Centuries-old
cliches and superstitions are often mixed with equally antiquated science. In
Windows on the Mind Dr. Harth examines the physical basis of mind, the
nervous system with its incoming and outgoing pathways, and the structure that
lies at its very core: the human brain. Windows on
the Mind presents up-to-date facts about the brain. Sections like "How
We See" and "How We Do" explain how large numbers of neurons communicate
and bring about specific functions. But beyond that, Dr. Harth cites recent experiments
that provide us with startling new insight into the ancient problem of mind-body
relationships. In addition, Windows on the Mind
debunks some attractive but unsound notions about mind. Dr. Harth draws a sharp
line between science and superstition and questions the methods employed in parapsychology.
He also maintains that popular accounts of right and left brain specialization
are often based on very meager empirical evidence. Imaginatively
illustrated, Windows on the Mind is written in nontechnical language that
can be understood by any thoughtful person who wishes to know about the most exciting
and complex subject of all: ourselves. Erich Harth
is Professor of Physics at Syracuse University. He was born in Vienna, Austria,
and in the years 1938 through 1940 emigrated to Italy, Portugal, Brazil, and,
finally, to the United States. After serving as a paratrooper with the U.S. Army
in the South Pacific during World War II, he received his Ph.D. in physics from
Syracuse University. He taught and did research at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory
and Duke University prior to his present appointment. For the past fifteen years
Professor Harth has devoted his efforts to the study of the brain. Dr. Harth is
married and has two sons. |
