Publishers Weekly
★ 07/15/2019
Neuroscientist Beck reveals how the brain’s faults actually enhance its functionality in this delightful study. These integral flaws and errors “mask the hidden strengths of our brain,” even as they create false memories, lead to math errors, and stymie decision-making. In a friendly and colloquial voice, with examples drawn from popular iconography and everyday life, Beck cites current research in neuropsychology to explain various mental phenomena—for example, why humans forget names and faces, how they learn from mistakes, and why they aren’t adept at rote learning but understand the way the world works. A lively discussion about creativity shows why people are rarely innovative on demand but can generate new ideas that are neither planned nor regulated. Readers will come to appreciate how the brain’s disorderly operating system is an advantage, and that being imperfect is what gives rise to new ideas, as Beck sums up when he pinpoints “the unique characteristic of human thought that it is not flawless and exact.” Illuminating, and a joy to read, this offers, in comparison to other recent neuroscience titles, a refreshingly accessible and relatable take on the brain’s inner workings that should appeal to both science buffs and casual readers. (Oct.)
From the Publisher
Illuminating, and a joy to read, [Scatterbrain] offers, in comparison to other recent neuroscience titles, a refreshingly accessible and relatable take on the brain’s inner workings that should appeal to both science buffs and casual readers.”
—Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
“Scatterbrain is the perfect explanation for one’s great achievements and an excellent excuse for those frequent mishaps.”
—The Psychologist
“There are so many fascinating nuggets of information in this book… All in all, a romp of a read.”
—Human Givens Journal
“Being scatterbrained has long been seen as a disadvantage, but as a neuroscientist, Henning Beck knows better. His engaging book will convince you that forgetting helps you remember and distractions can make you more creative.”
—Adam Grant, New York Times bestselling author of Originals and Give and Take, and host of TED's WorkLife podcast
“Beck is definitely a scientist of the people and his approach ensures that all readers can glean something intriguing from this book's pages.”
—Booklist
“For anyone who has ever momentarily blanked on a name, choked under pressure, or kicked themselves for making a 'careless' mistake, you may now forgive yourself. With this insightful and accessible book, Beck humorously sledgehammers the notion that our brains are infallible.”
—Zach Schonbrun, author of The Performance Cortex
“In an era of continuous self-optimization, Scatterbrain by German neuroscientist Dr. Henning Beck offers novel insights on our often self-defeating pursuit of perfection, and provides a roadmap to more creative thinking and better decision-making to realize one’s full potential. A must-read!”
—Sandra Navidi, Founder and CEO of BeyondGlobal and author of $uperHubs
“Scatterbrain is a brilliant and engaging user’s guide to the brain, masterfully transforming discoveries from neuroscience into practical personal insights and disruptive corporate practice.”
—Donald Hoffman, Professor of Cognitive Sciences at the University of California, and author of The Case Against Reality
“The brain is a messy, faulty wonder, and if we could all agree that perfection is not the mind’s ultimate goal, we would be much better off. Henning Beck shows us how to appreciate our imperfect brains—and is fine with readers straying from the page from time to time!”
—Ylva Østby, author of Adventures in Memory
