The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge M.D. is a story of the brain’s ability to change the way it functions by altering its physical and chemical makeup. Scientists have been able to prove that it is possible to regain almost normal activity after a stroke, and that afflictions like ADD, PTSD, and autism can be alleviated by exercising different parts of the brain. Doidge interviewed the groundbreaking scientists who researched this topic and wrote about several of their experiments and the people who benefited from their work. The author of this book employs ethos and pathos to captivate readers. Written by a doctor who researched and interviewed other doctors and scientists, The Brain That Changes Itself employs many credible sources and ideas. The major strength of this book is the way Doidge is able to state his thoughts so clearly. Even though this is a book on brain science, I found it easy to understand. The author uses a casual voice and writes the way you would speak to a friend. However, I think the major weakness of this book is that it can get a little dry at times. While Doidge states his thoughts plainly, I feel the book gets a little lengthy in the description of the scientific details. The author’s target audience seemed to be the general public, because many of his characters are people who lost brain function after a freak accident or illness. This puts the reader in the position of the character and allows them to empathize. Doidge also aims to inform doctors and maybe other scientists of these findings, suggesting new ways of helping people without medication. Overall I really liked The Brain That Changes Itself, and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in psychoanalysis or looking for stories of determination and the resilience of the human mind. The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science
The author of this book employs ethos and pathos to captivate readers. Written by a doctor who researched and interviewed other doctors and scientists, The Brain That Changes Itself employs many credible sources and ideas. The major strength of this book is the way Doidge is able to state his thoughts so clearly. Even though this is a book on brain science, I found it easy to understand. The author uses a casual voice and writes the way you would speak to a friend. However, I think the major weakness of this book is that it can get a little dry at times. While Doidge states his thoughts plainly, I feel the book gets a little lengthy in the description of the scientific details.
The author’s target audience seemed to be the general public, because many of his characters are people who lost brain function after a freak accident or illness. This puts the reader in the position of the character and allows them to empathize. Doidge also aims to inform doctors and maybe other scientists of these findings, suggesting new ways of helping people without medication. Overall I really liked The Brain That Changes Itself, and I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in psychoanalysis or looking for stories of determination and the resilience of the human mind.
The Brain That Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science