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  • The Brain That Changes Itself

  • Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science
  • Written by: Norman Doidge M.D.
  • Narrated by: Jim Bond
  • Length: 11 hrs and 25 mins
  • 4.7 out of 5 stars (60 ratings)

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The Brain That Changes Itself

Written by: Norman Doidge M.D.
Narrated by: Jim Bond
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Publisher's Summary

An astonishing new science called neuroplasticity is overthrowing the centuries-old notion that the human brain is immutable. Psychiatrist and psychoanalyst Norman Doidge, MD, traveled the country to meet both the brilliant scientists championing neuroplasticity and the people whose lives they've transformed - people whose mental limitations or brain damage were seen as unalterable. We see a woman born with half a brain that rewired itself to work as a whole, blind people who learn to see, learning disorders cured, IQs raised, aging brains rejuvenated, stroke patients learning to speak, children with cerebral palsy learning to move with more grace, depression and anxiety disorders successfully treated, and lifelong character traits changed.

Using these marvelous stories to probe mysteries of the body, emotion, love, sex, culture, and education, Dr. Doidge has written an immensely moving, inspiring book that will permanently alter the way we look at our brains, human nature, and human potential.

©2007 Norman Doidge (P)2020 Penguin Audio
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What the critics say

"The power of positive thinking finally gains scientific credibility. Mind-bending, miracle-making, reality-busting stuff...with implications for all human beings, not to mention human culture, human learning and human history." (The New York Times)

"Brilliant.... Doidge has identified a tidal shift in basic science....The implications are monumental." (The London Times)

"Fascinating. Doidge's book is a remarkable and hopeful portrait of the endless adaptability of the human brain." (Oliver Sacks, MD)

What listeners say about The Brain That Changes Itself

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Excellent audition!

This book is a good balance between the liveliness of the stories and the actual information being provided. A lot of the information can be used to act upon, or at least, continue researching from it. Accessible for most people.

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Fantastic book for anyone who wants to understand humanity and themselves

This is an amazing unbiassed explanation of human cognition, ability, behavior, adaptability, vice, and so much more. It’s both inspiring, because it offers hope to people who might feel that they are subject to their fate, but functions as a reality check. It contains a lot of eye-opening insights on the individual and cultures at large. Highly recommend.

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The Human Brain

This book answers so many questions about the why and how we use our brain for constructive and destructive activities. I propose without the knowledge of brain plasticity people sell themselves a bill of goods based on past experience. The exciting idea that you can alter your basic conception of experience is thrilling. We can put away the idea that no matter how hard I try I cannot change, yes you can just use your brain!

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neuroplasticity and the stories of people

I have been loving learning about neuroplasticity! The implications are incredible! The stories of the individuals throughout the book is inspiring

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Food for though

Fascinating and highly motivating in my opinion. The quest for learning and pushing our minds to think deeper can only benefit us and contribute to a fuller life. Excellent read.

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old news by now but good

Some of the exposure therapy bits in here bothered me. And the way autism is discussed/described but a good book.

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Excellent!

I appreciated the comprehensive overview and wise perspective of the author. Lots of history here as well.

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One of the best books on the brain

Tons of great examples of what the brain is capable of. A monstrous list of references. I've read a bunch of neuroscience related books lately and this is certainly one of the best.

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thought provoking

Honestly great listen and still gives me pause. My children, 8 and 12 enjoyed the chapters, too and we still often say "you're changing your brain!" highly recommend, although some studies are dated they are still relevant and interesting to learn about.

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Wowsers

A real challenge to human thinking and belief.
Great narrator.
Was tough at times to continue, based on technical content, but wonderful to complete.

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