Progress in the neurosciences is profoundly changing our conception of ourselves. Contrary to time-honored intuition, the mind turns out to be a complex of brain functions. And contrary to the wishful thinking of some philosophers, there is no stemming the revolutionary impact that brain research will have on our understanding of how the mind works.

Brain-Wise is the sequel to Patricia Smith Churchland's Neurophilosophy, the book that launched a subfield. In a clear, conversational manner, this book examines old questions about the nature of the mind within the new framework of the brain sciences. What, it asks, is the neurobiological basis of consciousness, the self, and free choice? How does the brain learn about the external world and about its own introspective world? What can neurophilosophy tell us about the basis and significance of religious and moral experiences?

Drawing on results from research at the neuronal, neurochemical, system, and whole-brain levels, the book gives an up-to-date perspective on the state of neurophilosophy--what we know, what we do not know, and where things may go from here.

andquot;Churchland explores the organic concept of self and nonself and what they mean both biologically and philosophically.andquot;
-- Terrence Riley, MD, JAMA

"Churchland explores the organic concept of self and nonself and what they mean both biologically and philosophically."
-- Terrence Riley, MD, JAMA

andquot;It is both lucid and profound, cutting through issues where others only obfuscate. The one to read.andquot;
-- Maggie McDonald, New Scientist

Drawing on results from research at the neuronal, neurochemical, system, and whole-brain levels, the book gives an up-to-date perspective on the state of neurophilosophy--what we know, what we do not know, and where things may go from here.

A neurophilosopher's take on the self, free will, human understanding, and the experience of God, from the perspective of the brain.

Includes bibliographical references (p. [421]-450) and index.

Patricia Smith Churchland is Chair of the Philosophy Department and the UC President's Professor of Philosophy at the University of California, San Diego, and Adjunct Professor at the Salk Institute. She is past president of the American Philosophical Association and the Society for Philosophy and Psychology.