Well-grounded : the neurobiology of rational decisions /

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Bibliographic Details
Author / Creator:Lambert, Kelly, author.
Imprint:New Haven : Yale University Press, [2018]
©2018
Description:1 online resource (xi, 299 pages) : illustrations
Language:English
Subject:
Format: E-Resource Book
URL for this record:http://pi.lib.uchicago.edu/1001/cat/bib/12871309
Hidden Bibliographic Details
Varying Form of Title:Neurobiology of rational decisions
ISBN:9780300240917
0300240910
9780300207309
0300207301
Notes:Includes bibliographical references (pages 261-284) and index.
Print version record.
Summary:A neuroscientist reveals unique aspects of decision making and the best strategies for protecting and enhancing the brain's ability to navigate life's uncertainties Contingency calculations--the ability to predict the outcomes of decisions and actions--are critical for survival and success. Our amazing brains continually process past and current experiences to enable us to make the most adaptive choices. But when the brain's information systems are compromised--by such varying conditions as drug addiction, poverty, mental illness, or even privilege--we can lose the ability to arrive at informed decisions. In this engaging book, behavioral neuroscientist Kelly Lambert explores a variety of the modern factors that can lead to warped neural processing, or distorted realities she terms "brain bubbles." Individuals who define success in terms of creature comforts and immediate gratification, for instance, may interact less with the physical and social world and thereby dull their ability to imagine varied contingency scenarios. The author underscores how continuous, meaningful, and well-grounded experiences are required if we are to make the best decisions throughout our lives.
Other form:Print version: Lambert, Kelly. Well-grounded. New Haven : Yale University Press, [2018] 9780300207309
Review by Choice Review

Lambert (Univ. of Richmond) presents a much-needed and comprehensive--yet accessible--synthesis of the growing variety of research focused on the neurobiology of rational decision making. Specifically, she contextualizes research within a larger and relatable world framework that addresses how our brains can best navigate many of life's changes and challenges. This book is incredibly well written: Lambert uses a humorous and often playfully sarcastic tone that develops a logical progression of background information into specific applications. She builds toward her larger points by infusing compelling, realistic vignettes that demonstrate the real-world connection of the research without sacrificing scientific rigor or nuance. Lambert has expertly presented complex research and scientific theories to a general audience in her previous books, and this book is in a similar alignment. It is easy to see why she is an acclaimed educator; her book would serve as an excellent complement to texts on cognitive/social neuroscience or cognitive psychology. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Advanced undergraduates, graduate students, and general readers. --Bethany S. Jurs, Transylvania University

Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review