The Cognitive Neurosciences, Sixth Edition (Mit Press)

What is this book and who is it for?

The Cognitive Neurosciences, in its sixth edition, is a reference textbook in the field of cognitive neuroscience. Edited by David Poeppel, George R. Mangun, and Michael S. Gazzaniga, this work brings together contributions from the world's leading researchers. It is aimed at graduate students, researchers, and professionals in neuroscience, cognitive psychology, neurology, and related disciplines. The book offers a comprehensive and updated overview of how the brain underpins cognition, from perception and attention to memory, language, and decision-making.

Content and organization

The sixth edition is organized into sections covering the main domains of cognitive neuroscience: sensory perception, motor systems, attention, memory, language, emotion, social cognition, and computational neuroscience. Each chapter is written by international experts and reviews the most relevant findings, while also pointing to future directions. The book incorporates advances in neuroimaging techniques, molecular genetics, and computational models, offering a multilevel perspective of the brain and behavior.

It includes over 1,000 full-color pages, with detailed illustrations and diagrams that facilitate the understanding of complex concepts. The work maintains the academic rigor characteristic of the MIT Press series, but with a didactic approach that makes it accessible to advanced readers.

Editors and their relevance

David Poeppel is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at New York University and director of the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences. George R. Mangun is a professor of psychology and neurology at the University of California, Davis. Michael S. Gazzaniga is one of the fathers of cognitive neuroscience, known for his studies on split-brain patients. The combination of these three editors ensures a balance between basic research, methodology, and clinical application.

Why choose the sixth edition?

Cognitive neuroscience is advancing rapidly. This edition incorporates new chapters on social neuroscience, memory circuits, and the neural bases of consciousness. It also includes updates to existing chapters, reflecting discoveries from the last decade. It is an essential tool for those who wish to stay up-to-date in a field that integrates biology, psychology, and computer science.

In addition, the book is presented in hardcover, with a robust binding designed for frequent use in libraries and offices. Its weight of approximately 2.86 kg reflects the thoroughness of the content.

Frequently asked questions

Is it suitable for undergraduate students?

Although primarily designed for graduate students, advanced students in psychology, medicine, or biology with a solid foundation can benefit from the work. It is recommended as a complement to advanced courses.

Does it include access to digital resources?

Depending on the edition, some distributors may offer electronic versions or supplementary material. It is suggested to consult the seller or publisher to confirm.

Does it cover computational neuroscience?

Yes, the sixth edition includes a section dedicated to computational models and neural networks, essential for understanding the intersection between artificial intelligence and neuroscience.

Final considerations

The Cognitive Neurosciences continues to be the most comprehensive and authoritative textbook in its field. This sixth edition consolidates its position as an essential reference for any professional or researcher seeking to understand the brain mechanisms of the mind. As an academic work, it does not replace medical advice or clinical diagnosis, but it provides the scientific basis for clinical practice and research.