Conversations with Neil’s Brain: The Natural Nature of Thought and Language

In a series of stories before, after, and even during neurosurgery, an epileptic patient, Neil; his surgeon, George Ojemann; and neuroscientist William Calvin work together to remove a portion of Neils temporal lobe. If they do it right, they will have a good chance of putting an end to Neils seizures. If they slice too far to the left or right, they will wipe out essential parts of Neils memory, or his ability to follow a joke to the punch line, or maybe his ability to recognize his wifes face. In essence, they can erase or alter parts of Neil. Conversations with Neils Brain takes us inside the operating room and allows us to be part of this eerie process of discovery, using it to provide a unique window on human consciousness and the nature of human identity. The mapping of Neils brain brings to life as never before the astounding specificity by which the brian operates, making clear why language, memory, and decision making are so complex, and why the cures for such ailments as learning disabilities, mental disorders, Alzheimers, and strokes continue to elude the worlds best medical efforts. In the context of this unique surgical drama, Conversations with Neils Brain unfolds as an intensely compelling read.