Publishers Weekly
11/15/2021
There are plenty of solutions for improved cognitive function out there, but not all of them are effective, contends journalist Willingham (Phallacy) in this searching guide to better brain health. Willingham begins with a look at how the brain used to be understood (it was once viewed as “a repository of the soul”) and homes in on six specific brain functions: global cognition, social cognition, stress and anxiety, attention and memory, mood, and creativity. Various programs and products on the market are evaluated: there are supplements, which are unregulated by the FDA; brain-training exercises, which may increase IQ (though IQ “varies based on context”); and the keto diet, which shows “hints” of improvement in anxiety; among others. In nearly every case, her conclusions are similar: there’s not enough credible data indicating that any of the interventions have a lasting impact, and the studies themselves are poorly designed. Checklists of Willingham’s own suggestions for beneficial actions round out most chapters, though they tend to be cursory, such as breathing exercises and advice to engage in regular exercise. Willingham effectively punches holes in unproven practices, but the lack of a positive direction leaves this work feeling lacking. (Dec.)
From the Publisher
"Fascinating and timely."—Salon
“This searching guide to better brain health….effectively punches holes in unproven practices.” —Publishers Weekly
“In a field characterized by junk science and false promises, Willingham offers something radical and unique—a book about improving your brain that layers rigorous science upon a moral center of kindness and empathy. The Tailored Brain is for people who want to think better and be good doing it. It’s also hilarious.”—Ed Yong, author of I Contain Multitudes
“We all want to know what neuroscience can teach us about changing our minds to make us better people—for ourselves and our world. But that research often lacks clarity, and the literature of wellness and self-improvement is full of woo and nonsense. Luckily, we have Emily Willingham. She’s an ace, and The Tailored Brain turns a cacophony of information into actionable, life-changing music.”—Adam Rogers, author of Full Spectrum
“Willingham is one of the smartest science journalists working today. In The Tailored Brain, she skillfully identifies evidence-based ways to lift our moods and sharpen our minds and calls out dodgy marketing claims about brain health. The Tailored Brain also explores how storytelling hones our empathy skills, eases mental burdens, and points us toward creative problem-solving. A must-read for anyone interested in brains and cognition.”—Christie Aschwanden, author of Good to Go
“Willingham invites you to connect your brain with hers, and what an amazing and profitable connection it is! She makes the science of the brain engaging, accessible, and relevant, from stress and anxiety to cognition, emotions, and so much more. With thoughtful, evidence-based action plans for optimizing your own mind-body connection, this is a timely and much-needed book.” —Dr. Jen Gunter, author of The Menopause Manifesto
