The Origin Of Consciousness In The Breakdown Of The Bicameral Mind by Julian Jaynes
The book explores a theory that human consciousness, as understood today, did not develop until about 3,000 years ago. Prior to this, according to the author, human behavior was governed by mental processes he describes as "bicameral," where the brain's two hemispheres had distinct roles, with one side responding to the other with auditory hallucinations that the individual obeyed as commands from gods. These hallucinations ceased as changes in society, language, and writing increased complexity in human interactions, leading to the development of introspective consciousness.
The 6715th greatest book of all time
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- Published
- 1976
- Nationality
- American
- Length
- Moderate
- Pages
- 432
- Original Language
- English
- Avg User Rating
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(4.7)
- Alternate Titles
- None
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This book is on the following 3 lists:
- 1,000 Books to Read Before You Die: A Life-Changing List (1,000 Books to Read Before You Die(Book))
- David Bowie's Top 100 Favorite Books (David Bowie)
- Will Self's Favorite Works of Non-Fiction (The Week)