Culture

Author: Robert Winston. Publisher: Bantam Books (4/5)
The Human Mind captivates the reader with the characteristically informative, entertaining and fascinating style Robert Winston has become renowned for. The moustachioed presenter of the TV series “The Human Body” this time focuses on a more specific - and arguably the most important - part of our anatomy: the brain.
 
 
The book provides an introduction to a veritable plethora of psychological topics, from sleepwalking to optical illusions, in an easily accessible way. No psychology or science background is required, but the content is in-depth and wide enough for even a widely read student to find something new and surprising.

 
It begins with a historical overview of how the field of psychology developed before going onto a brief overview of the anatomy involved (i.e. the parts of the brain). Winston then carries on with more detailed description and exploration of psychological phenomena. His extensive experience in the medical field and propensity for carrying out research simply for interest makes for an engaging read, full of charming and quirky anecdotes alongside thoroughly researched studies.

 
The book’s subtitle – “and how to make the most of it” - outlines an underlying theme of the book; that understanding how we work can let us know how we can work better. There is discussion of how we can break old habits and create newer, healthier ones. The chapter that focuses on intelligence reveals “tricks” to keep one’s brain in shape through the inevitable detriments of old age. You can find out how to use alcohol to its full potential – increase the enzymes that will help your brain grow without damaging those parts of the brainstem that we need to function normally. Scientise your Saturday night with a gem of wisdom from the Winston archives.