de la Mettrie's Ghost: The Story of Decisions

by Chris Nunn and Christopher Spicer

Book Overview

This book is about how we make choices. It is a compelling analysis of the nature of free will, drawing together evidence from chemistry, literature, politics, history and beyond. Psychiatrist Chris Nunn elegantly explores the revolutions in medicine, genetics, bioethics and neuroscience spurred by Julien de la Mettrie's 300-year-old tract Man the Machine. Nunn concludes that a mechanistic view of the human brain, though once fruitful, is now moribund...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1403994951
• ISBN13: 9781403994950
• Release Date: August 2005
• Publisher: Palgrave MacMillan
• Length: 235 Pages
• Weight: 0.70 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.6" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

An Outstanding Book!

This is a rare "must read" book for anyone with even a passing interest in choice and free will. So many writers know the extent of their knowledge and expertise, and remain within their comfort zone. Chris Nunn is not afraid to go into areas of knowledge beyond his own area of expertise, and demonstrates a rare mastery of disparate disciplines. A real page turner, and an exceptional contribution.