Synopses & Reviews
In a series of stories before, after, and even during neurosurgery, an epileptic patient, Neil; his surgeon, George Ojemann; and neuroscientist William Calvin work together to remove a portion of Neils temporal lobe. If they do it right, they will have a good chance of putting an end to Neils seizures. If they slice too far to the left or right, they will wipe out essential parts of Neils memory, or his ability to follow a joke to the punch line, or maybe his ability to recognize his wifes face. In essence, they can erase or alter parts of Neil.Conversations with Neils Brain takes us inside the operating room and allows us to be part of this eerie process of discovery, using it to provide a unique window on human consciousness and the nature of human identity. The mapping of Neils brain brings to life as never before the astounding specificity by which the brian operates, making clear why language, memory, and decision making are so complex, and why the cures for such ailments as learning disabilities, mental disorders, Alzheimers, and strokes continue to elude the worlds best medical efforts. In the context of this unique surgical drama, Conversations with Neils Brain unfolds as an intensely compelling read.
Synopsis
In a series of encounters before, after, and even during neurosurgery, an epileptic patient--Neil--his surgeon, George Ojemann, and a neuroscientist, William Calvin, explore the landscape of the brain to reveal the incredibly complex mystery of human consciousness. An absorbing medical drama.
Synopsis
"In a series of stories before, after, and even during neurosurgery, an epileptic patient, Neil; his surgeon, George Ojemann; and neuroscientist William Calvin work together to remove a portion of Neil"
About the Author
William H. Calvin, Ph.D., a neurophysiologist at the University of Washington, is the author of
The Throwing Madonna and
The River that Flows Uphill.
George A. Ojemann, M.D., a neurosurgeon at the University of Washington, collaborated with Dr. Calvin on their earlier book, Inside the Brain.