Brain plasticity

Phantoms in the Brain Summary of Key Points

Phantoms in the Brain, written by neuroscientist V.S. Ramachandran and Sandra Blakeslee, delves into the intriguing world of neurology and human consciousness. The book presents a series of case studies on patients with bizarre neurological disorders, which help to shed light on the functioning of the brain. Ramachandran explores topics such as phantom limb pain, the brain’s adaptability, and what these phenomena say about human experience.

My Stroke of Insight Summary of Key Points

My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist’s Personal Journey is a remarkable memoir by Jill Bolte Taylor, a Harvard-trained neuroanatomist who experienced a severe stroke at the age of 37. This book details her journey of recovery and the insights she gained into the workings of her brain and consciousness as she observed her own stroke as it happened. Taylor shares her experiences of the stroke’s immediate impact, her eight-year recovery process, and the profound understanding she gained about the human brain’s capacity for recovery and peace. This narrative not only explores the scientific aspects of stroke and recovery but also delves into Taylor’s personal transformation and her discovery of a newfound appreciation for life.