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Nature's mind

Michael S. Gazzaniga

1992220 pagesabout 3–5 hours
1992
first published
  • 1992BasicBooks · 220 pages · ENGISBN 9780465076499
  • 1994Penguin UK · 240 pages · ENGISBN 9780140232042
  • 1994Basic Books · 240 pages · ENGISBN 9780465048632

In a treatise that takes the nature vs. nurture controversy to a new extreme, the author, using selection theory, dismantles psychoanalysis, chides doctors for not heeding the body's innate wisdom, and offers explanations for drug addiction, alcoholism, dieting, hypersexed behavior and compulsions. He advises parents to "set a context for opportunity" and to let the child do the rest. Emphasizing "feeling-in-control" as a key to well-being, he suggests that "disempowering" institutions such as welfare and homes for the elderly can be detrimental. Photos.

When and where

ThemesNature
How do you feel?