Phantoms in the Brain

by Sandra Blakeslee and V. S. Ramachandran
Phantoms in the Brain cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Psychology and Human Behavior
Technical
  • ID: 3327
  • Added: 2025-10-18
  • Updated: 2025-10-18
  • ISBN: 9780688172176
  • Publisher: Harper Collins
  • Published: 1999-08-18
  • Reviews: 4

Phantoms in the Brain delves into the intriguing world of neurology through the lens of renowned neuroscientist V.S. Ramachandran. Using unconventional and low-tech tools, Ramachandran examines patients with unusual neurological disorders to uncover the brain's deep architecture. His work challenges traditional theories and offers new perspectives on how we perceive ourselves, experience emotions, and even believe in the divine. The book is a captivating journey into the mind, blending scientific inquiry with profound philosophical questions about human nature. Through compelling case studies, such as a woman who believes she is using both hands despite paralysis and a man who claims to converse with God, Ramachandran illustrates how the brain constructs reality. His findings not only push the boundaries of medical understanding but also provide a unique lens through which to view the complexities of consciousness, self-deception, and creativity. This book is a must-read for anyone curious about the inner workings of the human mind and its incredible capabilities.

Reviews
Macwright · Tom MacWright · 2025-10-18
enjoyable 4.00

The book is described as thoroughly enjoyable and accessible, covering oddities in neuroscience. However, the last chapter on qualia is noted as less satisfying.

Tom MacWright finds the book to be a delightful and easy read, particularly appreciating its exploration of unusual neuroscientific phenomena. The majority of the book is praised for its clarity and engaging style. However, they mention that the final chapter on qualia falls short of the high standards set by the rest of the book, finding it less compelling and somewhat unsatisfying. Overall, it's seen as a great introduction to neuroscience for those curious about the subject.

Quick quotes

    Phantoms in the Brain is a thoroughly enjoyable, very accessible book about oddities in neuroscience.

    Except for its last chapter, about qualia and consciousness, it's a great read.

    The book does a fantastic job of making complex topics understandable and engaging.

Reddit - Recommended Books · 2019-01-01
recommended 4.00

The book is highly recommended for those interested in psychology and the brain. It offers new insights into neurological disorders and the brain's architecture.

The reviewer highly recommends this book to anyone with an interest in psychology and the brain. They appreciate the new insights it provides into neurological disorders and the deep architecture of the brain. The book is praised for its ability to shed light on complex topics in an accessible manner, making it a must-read for those curious about the mysteries of the human mind. The reviewer's enthusiasm for the book is evident in their recommendation.

Quick quotes

    I would highly recommend checking out Phantoms in the Brain.

    It offers new insights into neurological disorders and the deep architecture of the brain.

    The book is a must-read for those curious about the mysteries of the human mind.

Backreaction Blog · 2012-12-26
insightful 4.00

The book is praised for its accessibility and the co-author's role in making complex neuroscientific concepts understandable. It is seen as a valuable resource for both general readers and those with a background in neuroscience.

The reviewer highlights how the book successfully breaks down intricate neurological topics into digestible insights. They appreciate the co-author's contribution in making the content approachable for a wider audience. This makes the book not only informative but also engaging for those who may not have a deep scientific background. The reviewer finds it a compelling read that bridges the gap between complex science and general understanding.

Quick quotes

    The book is written in a way that makes it accessible for a wider readership.

    It is a fascinating exploration of the mysteries of the human brain.

    The authors do an excellent job of explaining complex neurological phenomena in simple terms.

Sunny Bains · 2008-08-09
fascinating 4.00

The book has a split personality in structure and writing, which may or may not appeal to all readers. It offers fascinating insights into the mysteries of the human mind.

The reviewer notes that this book has a bit of a split personality, both in terms of its structure and writing style. This duality might not appeal to everyone, but it doesn't detract from the fascinating insights it offers into the mysteries of the human mind. The book delves into neurological disorders and presents complex ideas in a relatively accessible manner, making it a compelling read for those interested in the brain and its functions.

Quick quotes

    This book has a bit of a split personality, both in terms of its structure and writing.

    How much this has to do with the fact that it has two authors is not clear.

    It offers fascinating insights into the mysteries of the human mind.

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