Title
Brain and Culture: Neurobiology, Ideology, and Social Change (Mit Press),Used
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Research shows that between birth and early adulthood the brain requires sensory stimulation to develop physically. The nature of the stimulation shapes the connections among neurons that create the neuronal networks necessary for thought and behavior. By changing the cultural environment, each generation shapes the brains of the next. By early adulthood, the neuroplasticity of the brain is greatly reduced, and this leads to a fundamental shift in the relationship between the individual and the environment: during the first part of life, the brain and mind shape themselves to the major recurring features of their environment; by early adulthood, the individual attempts to make the environment conform to the established internal structures of the brain and mind. In Brain and Culture, Bruce Wexler explores the social implications of the close and changing neurobiological relationship between the individual and the environment, with particular attention to the difficulties individuals face in adulthood when the environment changes beyond their ability to maintain the fit between existing internal structure and external reality. These difficulties are evident in bereavement, the meeting of different cultures, the experience of immigrants (in which children of immigrant families are more successful than their parents at the necessary internal transformations), and the phenomenon of interethnic violence. Integrating recent neurobiological research with major experimental findings in cognitive and developmental psychologywith illuminating references to psychoanalysis, literature, anthropology, history, and politicsWexler presents a wealth of detail to support his arguments. The groundbreaking connections he makes allow for reconceptualization of the effect of cultural change on the brain and provide a new biological base from which to consider such social issues as 'culture wars' and ethnic violence.
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- Q: What is the main focus of 'Brain and Culture'? A: 'Brain and Culture' explores the relationship between neurobiology, ideology, and social change, emphasizing how sensory stimulation and cultural environments shape brain development from birth to early adulthood.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of 'Brain and Culture' is Bruce Wexler, a recognized expert in neuropsychology.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: 'Brain and Culture' is available in paperback binding, making it a flexible and lightweight option for readers.
- Q: How many pages are in 'Brain and Culture'? A: The book contains 320 pages, providing a comprehensive exploration of its themes.
- Q: When was 'Brain and Culture' published? A: 'Brain and Culture' was published on August 29, 2008.
- Q: What are the key themes addressed in this book? A: Key themes include the impact of cultural change on brain development, the challenges of adapting to new environments, and the neurobiological implications of social issues such as immigration and interethnic violence.
- Q: Is this book suitable for someone new to neuropsychology? A: Yes, 'Brain and Culture' is accessible for readers new to neuropsychology, as it integrates complex ideas with references to various fields like psychology, anthropology, and history.
- Q: What is the significance of neuroplasticity discussed in the book? A: Neuroplasticity is significant in the book as it highlights how the brain adapts to cultural environments during early life, affecting individual behavior and thought processes later on.
- Q: Are there any specific case studies or examples in the book? A: Yes, Wexler includes various case studies, such as the experiences of immigrants and the challenges of bereavement, to illustrate his arguments about cultural and neurobiological interactions.
- Q: What makes this book a valuable read for understanding social change? A: 'Brain and Culture' offers groundbreaking insights into how cultural changes affect brain structure and function, providing a biological perspective on social issues that are increasingly relevant today.