From Bacteria to Bach and Back

The Evolution of Minds

Daniel C. Dennett

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Paperback

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English

Penguin
29 January 2018

Philosophy of mind; Eclectic & esoteric religions & belief systems; Mathematics & Sciences; Popular science; Evolution

One of the world's most original and provocative thinkers offers a major new account of the origins of the conscious mind

What is human consciousness and how is it possible? These questions fascinate thinking people from poets and painters to physicists, psychologists, and philosophers. This is Daniel C. Dennett's brilliant answer, extending perspectives from his earlier work in surprising directions, exploring the deep interactions of evolution, brains, and human culture. Part philosophical whodunnit, part bold scientific conjecture, this landmark work enlarges themes that have sustained Dennett's legendary career at the forefront of philosophical thought. In his inimitable style, laced with wit and arresting thought experiments, Dennett shows how culture enables reflection by installing a profusion of thinking tools, or memes, in our brains. Language, itself composed of memes, turbocharged this interplay. The result, a mind that can comprehend the questions it poses, emerges from a process of cultural evolution. An agenda-setting book for a new generation of philosophers and other researchers, this will delight and entertain anyone who hopes to understand human creativity in all its wondrous applications.

By: Daniel C. Dennett
Imprint: Penguin
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 198mm, Width: 129mm, Spine: 21mm
Weight: 345g
ISBN: 9780141978048
ISBN 10: 014197804X
Pages: 496
Publication Date: 29 January 2018
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Daniel C. Dennett is the University Professor and Austin B. Fletcher Professor of Philosophy at Tufts University. He is the author of numerous books including Intuition Pumps and Other Tools for Thinking, Breaking the Spell, Darwin's Dangerous Idea, and Consciousness Explained.

Reviews for From Bacteria to Bach and Back: The Evolution of Minds

Intelligence, insight and flair ... They don't come much bigger than Daniel Dennett -- Julian Baggini * Guardian * Lucid ... A brave and bracing book ... There should be more like it * The Times * Required reading for anyone remotely curious about how they came to be remotely curious * Observer * A lively and cogent account of how human beings, uniquely among species, have evolved to possess a conscious mind ... An excellent exploration of the concept of cultural evolution, and the origins and consequences of human creativity * Sunday Times * Beguiling and enthralling * Spectator *