Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
HappinessYou’ll learn
- How brains rewrite their own stories
- Self-made cures for "incurable" minds
- To unveil love's plasticity
- Beating pain with the brain's magic
Table of contents
first KEY POINT
Brain — more than just hardwired circuitry
This summary is meant to uphold the fact that the human brain is indeed capable of change. This fact is propelled by the testimonies of scientists, doctors, and patients. Patients with brain diseases previously considered incurable were healed by utilizing the knowledge of the brain’s inherent ability to change.
The common misconception of the human brain is that as we grow, it begins a slow and continuous decline.
After childhood, if brain cells are lost due to injury or damage, they will not be replaced. The implication of this misconception is that people who suffered brain damage of any form in the past had to remain like that for life. However, this belief was backed up by three factors: the inability of patients suffering from brain damage to make a full recovery, the lack of information on the microscopic activities of the brain, and the belief that the brain is the ultimate machine and like machines, it can’t grow or change.Dr. Norman Doidge experienced failures in his career, which were attributed to the fact that the brain was hard-wired. Although this was accepted in the world of medicine, it still bothered the research psychiatrist and psychoanalyst that his patients did not progress as expected. As a result, when he came to the knowledge that there was hope — the brain might not have been as hard-wired as everyone was led to the belief — he began investigating. He wanted to find proof for himself, and his studies led him to travel far and wide until he met a series of scientists.These scientists were at the forefront of all brain-related studies. Dr Norman Doidge had the opportunity to converse with laureates who were focused on making the most of the newly discovered, ever-changing brain. This guide summarizes his encounters and lessons.
second KEY POINT
Failures accompanying a defective vestibular apparatus
This section will discuss the experience of a brain damage patient — Cheryl Schlitz. She often imagines herself off balance, and as a result, her body turns out off balance. If she pictures herself falling, she falls.To classify her problem using technical terms, it can be said that Cheryl Schlitz's problem stems from her vestibular apparatus. It is the organ responsible for keeping the entire body balanced.This condition led to her losing her job and receiving a monthly disability payment of $1,000. She suffers from a rare type of anxiety that doctors and experts have not yet been able to properly label.Dr. Norman Doidge witnessed the work of great scientists in the case of Cheryl Schlitz. She was worked on by Paul Bach-y-Rita and his team. By all indications, the case of Cheryl Schlitz was helpless. By utilizing one of Bach-y-Rita’s prototypes, Cheryl Schlitz has been trained to maintain balance despite her fatal condition.Although she can’t function without the prototype, when the prototype is in operation, she is kept balanced. This gives her an entirely new look — all her woes disappear, and she experiences peace one more time. Despite the fact that this is only possible when she is using the machine, she still references this change as a miracle.The machine functions by taking data from her tongue straight to the part of the brain responsible for the balance. This means that rather than being fooled by her eyes and imagination, the tongue sends accurate signals which keeps this section of the brain satisfied.Based on the success of the machine, these scientists are currently seeking ways through which they can reduce the size of the machine. They want it to fit comfortably within the mouth of patients. If they are successful, patients will be able to lead normal lives without anyone knowing they have a brain injury.
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first KEY POINT
A woman labeled “retarded" found how to heal herself
second KEY POINT
What neuroplasticity teaches us about sexual attraction and love
third KEY POINT
Stroke victim learns to move and speak again
fourth KEY POINT
Brain plasticity: Key to overcoming worries and compulsions
fifth KEY POINT
The dark side of plasticity
sixth KEY POINT
Conclusion
Related summaries
Frequently asked questions
What is The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science about?
The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge explores the transformative power of the human brain, illustrating how neuroplasticity allows for personal growth and recovery. Through various real-life stories, it showcases remarkable instances where individuals overcome disabilities and limitations, emphasizing that our brains are not static but capable of adaptation and change.
What are the key takeaways from The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science?
Key takeaways from The Brain that Changes Itself include the concept that the brain is malleable and can rewire itself through experiences and efforts. Additionally, it highlights personal resilience and the importance of believing in one's ability to change, as demonstrated through compelling anecdotes of triumph over adversity.
Is The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science worth reading?
Yes, The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge is definitely worth reading if you're interested in psychology and neuroscience. Its engaging narratives and insights into neuroplasticity provide valuable lessons about personal growth and the limitless potential of the human brain.
How many pages is The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science and when was it published?
The Brain that Changes Itself is approximately 336 pages long and was published in 2007. This book has gained significant acclaim for its accessible exploration of complex scientific concepts.
What is the overall impact of The Brain that Changes Itself: Stories of Personal Triumph from the Frontiers of Brain Science?
The overall impact of The Brain that Changes Itself lies in its ability to inspire change in readers by showcasing the brain's potential for adaptation and recovery. It encourages understanding that our cognitive abilities can improve through effort and practice, fostering hope and empowerment.