The Master and His Emissary

The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World

By: Iain McGilchrist

Narrated by: Dennis Kleinman

In a book of unprecedented scope Iain McGilchrist presents a fascinating exploration of the differences between the brain’s left and right hemispheres and how those differences have affected society, history and culture.

McGilchrist draws on a vast body of recent research in neuroscience and psychology to reveal that the difference is profound: the left hemisphere is detail oriented, while the right has greater breadth, flexibility and generosity.

McGilchrist then takes the listener on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from Aeschylus to Magritte.

©2010 Iain McGilchrist (P)2019 Tantor

Fundamental to all other thought and analysis

The author has a strong hypothesis on which others will build over time. Excellent work.

A wide ranging and comprehensive look at the world from the perspectives of right and left brain constructions of the world

I highly recommend this book to all to deepen understanding of how we think and understand the world.

Highly informative

It's a highly informative book. Even though I don't 100% agree with everything said, I feel it helped me make a shift in the way I look at things

Probably the most relevant research of our times!

Dr. McGilchrist calls it “The Hemispheres Hypothesis”, but I think it’s out of humbleness. His meticulous and careful research shades so much light on vast areas of human history, psychology, art, philosophy, and even in modern technology and engineering. This and his newest book, “The Matter with Things”, should be mandatory reading in all college courses in any area. Do yourself a favor and read them!

This book is just wonderful.

A fascinating exploration of neurobiology, cognitive science, philosophy, history, psychology, learning. one of the best books I've read in years.