Incognito

In 'Incognito,' David Eagleman delves into the hidden workings of the unconscious mind, revealing how much of our thoughts and actions are fueled by unseen processes. He invites readers on a fascinating journey through neuroscience, exploring insights from brain studies that challenge our perceptions of identity and free will. Discover the surprising ways our brains shape our experiences, often without our conscious awareness. From decision-making to creativity, Eagleman uncovers the mysterious layers of the mind that govern our behaviors. This captivating exploration poses a compelling question: who are we when we’re not aware of our own minds?

By David Eagleman

Published: 2011

"We are not the conscious authors of our thoughts; instead, we are the characters acting out a script we never chose."

IncognitoBook binding

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

If the conscious mind—the part you consider to be you—is just the tip of the iceberg, what is the rest doing? In this sparkling and provocative new book, the renowned neuroscientist David Eagleman navigates the depths of the subconscious brain to illuminate surprising mysteries: Why can your foot move halfway to the brake pedal before you become consciously aware of danger ahead? Why do you hear your name being mentioned in a conversation that you didn’t think you were listening to? What do Ulysses and the credit crunch have in common? Why did Thomas Edison electrocute an elephant in 1916? Why are people whose names begin with J more likely to marry other people whose names begin with J? Why is it so difficult to keep a secret? And how is it possible to get angry at yourself—who, exactly, is mad at whom? Taking in brain damage, plane spotting, dating, drugs, beauty, infidelity, synesthesia, criminal law, artificial intelligence, and visual illusions, Incognito is a thrilling subsurface exploration of the mind and all its contradictions.

Mike & Casey Show Logo

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from Incognito

About the Author

D

David Eagleman

David Eagleman is an acclaimed neuroscientist, author, and speaker known for his engaging exploration of the human brain and its complexities. He is the author of several notable works, including 'Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain,' 'Sum: Forty Tales from the Afterlives,' and 'The Brain: The Story of You.' Eagleman's writing is characterized by its ability to blend scientific concepts with narrative style, making complex topics accessible and intriguing. His creative approach often delves into themes of consciousness, perception, and the implications of neuroscience on personal identity. In addition to his books, Eagleman has also contributed to popular science through his television series and lectures, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the intersection of science and storytelling.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
David Eagleman
Published
May 2011
Publisher
Vintage
ISBN
0307379787
Language
English
Pages
310
Genres
Cognitive PsychologyBehavioral PsychologyPsychology

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

InfluenceBook binding

Influence

Robert B. Cialdini, PhD

Talking to StrangersBook binding

Talking to Strangers

Malcolm Gladwell

How to Read a BookBook binding

How to Read a Book

Mortimer J. Adler, Charles Van Doren

Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)Book binding

Mistakes Were Made (but Not by Me)

Elliot Aronson, Carol Tavris

So You've Been Publicly ShamedBook binding

So You've Been Publicly Shamed

Jon Ronson

Mindless EatingBook binding

Mindless Eating

Brian Wansink, PhD

From Chocolate to MorphineBook binding

From Chocolate to Morphine

Andrew Weil, Winifred Rosen

IrresistibleBook binding

Irresistible

Adam Alter

EndureBook binding

Endure

Alex Hutchinson

The Spiritual Life of ChildrenBook binding

The Spiritual Life of Children

Robert Coles

Gamification by DesignBook binding

Gamification by Design

Psychology of the Digital AgeBook binding

Psychology of the Digital Age

John R. Suler

BehaveBook binding

Behave

Robert M. Sapolsky

Happier : Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting FulfillmentBook binding

Happier : Learn the Secrets to Daily Joy and Lasting Fulfillment

Tal Ben-Shahar

We Were Soldiers Once...and YoungBook binding

We Were Soldiers Once...and Young

Lt. General Ha Moore, Joseph Galloway

Starting Point: 1979-1996Book binding

Starting Point: 1979-1996

Hayao Miyazaki

A Gentleman in MoscowBook binding

A Gentleman in Moscow

Amor Towles

Hold 'em Poker for Advanced PlayersBook binding

Hold 'em Poker for Advanced Players

David Sklansky, Mason Malmuth

Fooling Some of the People All of the Time, A Long Short (and Now Complete) Story, Updated with New EpilogueBook binding

Fooling Some of the People All of the Time, A Long Short (and Now Complete) Story, Updated with New Epilogue

David Einhorn

The Thing Which Has No NameBook binding

The Thing Which Has No Name

Rory Sutherland

Why Everyone (Else) Is a HypocriteBook binding

Why Everyone (Else) Is a Hypocrite

Robert Kurzban

Tricks of the MindBook binding

Tricks of the Mind

Derren Brown

The Savage Wars of PeaceBook binding

The Savage Wars of Peace

Max Boot

The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage (Book of Dust, Volume 1)Book binding

The Book of Dust: La Belle Sauvage (Book of Dust, Volume 1)

Philip Pullman

The Origins and History of ConsciousnessBook binding

The Origins and History of Consciousness

Erich Neumann

Bullet Points and Punch LinesBook binding

Bullet Points and Punch Lines

Lee Camp

A Short History of Financial EuphoriaBook binding

A Short History of Financial Euphoria

John Kenneth Galbraith

The Hard Facts of the Grimms' Fairy TalesBook binding

The Hard Facts of the Grimms' Fairy Tales

Maria Tatar

Something That May Shock and Discredit YouBook binding

Something That May Shock and Discredit You

Daniel Mallory Ortberg

Dotcom SecretsBook binding

Dotcom Secrets

Russell Brunson

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Book Collections you might like →

Amy Hood's Book Recommendations

Amy Hood's Book Recommendations

Amy Hood is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Microsoft, responsible for leading the company’s worldwide financial operations, including accounting, strategic planning, and treasury. Hood joined Microsoft in 2002 and became CFO in 2013, making her one of the most powerful women in tech. She has been a driving force behind Microsoft’s shift to cloud computing, helping to grow its Azure and Office 365 businesses, which have been key to the company's recent financial success. Hood is known for her analytical rigor and strategic thinking, often credited with streamlining operations and boosting profitability during her tenure. She has also played a critical role in Microsoft’s acquisitions, including LinkedIn and GitHub, further expanding the company’s portfolio. Hood is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, championing efforts to create a more equitable environment within Microsoft. Her leadership has earned her recognition as one of the most influential executives in the tech industry.

View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations

Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations

Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.

View Collection
Malcolm Gladwell's Book Recommendations

Malcolm Gladwell's Book Recommendations

Malcolm Gladwell is a Canadian journalist, author, and public speaker, best known for his best-selling books The Tipping Point, Outliers, and Blink. Gladwell’s work often explores the hidden patterns behind success, decision-making, and social phenomena, using storytelling to make complex ideas accessible to a wide audience. He has written extensively for The New Yorker and hosts the popular podcast Revisionist History, where he reexamines overlooked or misunderstood events in history. Gladwell is known for his ability to challenge conventional wisdom and provoke new ways of thinking about human behavior and societal trends.

View Collection
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

View Collection
Mark Manson's Book Recommendations

Mark Manson's Book Recommendations

Mark Manson is a best-selling author and personal development expert known for his candid and no-nonsense approach to self-help. His most notable work, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck," has sold millions of copies worldwide and has been translated into numerous languages, resonating with readers for its practical advice and irreverent tone. Manson followed up with another successful book, "Everything Is F*cked: A Book About Hope," which further cemented his reputation as a thought leader in modern existentialism. In addition to his books, he runs a popular blog that delves into topics ranging from happiness to personal growth. His work has not only transformed the self-help genre but also influenced a global audience seeking authentic and actionable guidance.

View Collection
Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations

Derek Sivers's Book Recommendations

Derek Sivers is an entrepreneur, author, and founder of CD Baby, one of the first online platforms that allowed independent musicians to sell their music directly to fans. Sivers is known for his unconventional approach to business and life, advocating for simplicity, focus, and self-reliance. After selling CD Baby, Sivers has become a sought-after speaker and writer, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and personal development. His books, including Anything You Want, provide practical advice for living a meaningful, purpose-driven life. Sivers’ minimalist and thoughtful approach has made him a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.

View Collection
Alex Hormozi's Book Recommendations

Alex Hormozi's Book Recommendations

Alex Hormozi is a celebrated entrepreneur, author, and founder of Acquisition.com, a company dedicated to helping businesses scale efficiently. He gained prominence with his best-selling book "Gym Launch Secrets," which provides a blueprint for fitness entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Hormozi is also known for "The Million Dollar Offers" book, where he shares strategies on creating irresistible offers that drive sales. His work has significantly impacted the business community, providing practical insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs. Through his books and business ventures, Hormozi continues to inspire and guide countless individuals on their journey to success.

View Collection
Iman Gadzhi's Book Recommendations

Iman Gadzhi's Book Recommendations

Iman Gadzhi is a renowned entrepreneur, digital marketing expert, and author, best known for his influential work in the field of online business education. He founded IAG Media, a digital marketing agency that has helped numerous companies scale their online presence. Gadzhi is also the creator of the popular online course, "GrowYourAgency," which has educated thousands of aspiring digital marketers worldwide. His contributions to literature include insightful writings on entrepreneurship and self-improvement, with a focus on empowering individuals to achieve financial independence. Gadzhi's impact on the digital marketing landscape and dedication to teaching have solidified his reputation as a thought leader in the industry.

View Collection
Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.

View Collection
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant's Book Recommendations

Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.

View Collection

We are not the conscious authors of our thoughts; instead, we are the characters acting out a script we never chose.

Incognito

By David Eagleman

Frequently Asked Questions