The Hidden Spring

A revelatory new theory of consciousness that returns emotions to the center of mental life.

For Mark Solms, one of the boldest thinkers in contemporary neuroscience, discovering how consciousness comes about has been a lifetime's quest. He has now arrived at an astonishing answer. While sticking closely to the medical facts, Solms proves to be a frank and fearless guide on an extraordinary voyage from the dawn of psychoanalysis to the cutting edge of contemporary neuroscience.

He introduces you to neurological patients whose uncanny conversations reveal much about the brain's obscure reaches. Venturing into the elementary physics of life, he finds surprising confirmation of some of Sigmund Freud's most provocative insights. Most importantly, you will be able to recognize the workings of your own mind for what they really are, including every stray thought, pulse of emotion, and shift of attention. More than a philosophical argument, the Free...