Cover of the book The age of insight
Critically acclaimed
Buy on Amazon

Already read? Rate it!

The age of insight

the quest to understand the unconscious in art, mind, and brain : from Vienna 1900 to the present

byEric R. Kandel

Who is this book for? Readers interested in psychology, art history, and cultural studies.

Topics IdentityArtHuman Nature
MoodReflective
Explicit scenesSuggestive Themes
A brilliant book by Nobel Prize winner Eric R. Kandel, The Age of Insight takes us to Vienna 1900, where leaders in science, medicine, and art began a revolution that changed forever how we think about the human mind—our conscious and unconscious thoughts and emotions—and how mind and brain relate to art. At the turn of the century, Vienna was the cultural capital of Europe. Artists and scientists met in glittering salons, where they freely exchanged ideas that led to revolutionary breakthroughs in psychology, brain science, literature, and art. Kandel takes us into the world of Vienna to trace, in rich and rewarding detail, the ideas and advances made then, and their enduring influence today. The Vienna School of Medicine led the way with its realization that truth lies hidden beneath the surface. That principle infused Viennese culture and strongly influenced the other pioneers of Vienna 1900. Sigmund Freud shocked the world with his insights into how our everyday unconscious aggressive and erotic desires are repressed and disguised in symbols, dreams, and behavior. Arthur Schnitzler revealed women’s unconscious sexuality in his novels through his innovative use of the interior monologue. Gustav Klimt, Oscar Kokoschka, and Egon Schiele created startlingly evocative and honest portraits that expressed unconscious lust, desire, anxiety, and the fear of death. Kandel tells the story of how these pioneers—Freud, Schnitzler, Klimt, Kokoschka, and Schiele—inspired by the Vienna School of Medicine, in turn influenced the founders of the Vienna School of Art History to ask pivotal questions such as What does the viewer bring to a work of art? How does the beholder respond to it? These questions prompted new and ongoing discoveries in psychology and brain biology, leading to revelations about how we see and perceive, how we think and feel, and how we respond to and create works of art. Kandel, one of the leading scientific thinkers of our time, places these five innovators in the context of today’s cutting-edge science and gives us a new understanding of the modernist art of Klimt, Kokoschka, and Schiele, as well as the school of thought of Freud and Schnitzler. Reinvigorating the intellectual enquiry that began in Vienna 1900, The Age of Insight is a wonderfully written, superbly researched, and beautifully illustrated book that also provides a foundation for future work in neuroscience and the humanities. It is an extraordinary book from an international leader in neuroscience and intellectual history.

Language

en

Published on

01/01/2012

Pages

636

Format

Hardcover

ISBN

9781400068715

Price Comparison

Books similar to The age of insight

If you enjoyed readingThe age of insight by Eric R. Kandel, you may also like some of the following books.


Innovators and Inventors

Explore the minds behind groundbreaking inventions and technological advancements. These biography books highlight the creativity and perseverance of individuals who have changed the way we live and work.

Show all

Artists and Musicians

Discover the stories behind the masterpieces with biographies of iconic artists and musicians. These books offer a glimpse into the creative processes and personal lives of those who have enriched our cultural landscape.

Show all

Award Winning Literature

Step into the world of **Award Winning Literature books**, where every page resonates with excellence and acclaim. These books have not only captured the hearts of readers but have also been recognized by prestigious literary awards.

Show all

Politics

Delve into the world of politics books that illuminate the intricate workings of power and governance. Whether you're a seasoned political analyst or a curious newcomer, these works offer insights into past and present political landscapes.

Show all

Biography

Uncover the fascinating lives of influential figures with our extensive collection of biography books. Whether you're interested in the groundbreaking achievements of innovators or the compelling stories of political leaders, our selection offers a deep dive into real-life narratives that shape our world.

Show all