First published 2011
Neuroscientist David Linden examines the brain mechanisms that drive human pleasure and addiction. Drawing on recent research findings, he explores how the brain responds to different substances and behaviors that trigger ecstasy. Linden investigates why certain drugs like nicotine and heroin create powerful dependencies while others like LSD do not. He analyzes the failed attempts to develop safe appetite suppressants and explains the neurological reasons behind these failures. The book moves past simple descriptions of what people enjoy to examine the deeper question of why humans cannot stop pursuing certain pleasures even when they recognize the behavior as harmful. Linden presents complex neuroscience in accessible terms, showing how the same brain circuits that evolved to help humans survive now trap them in cycles of compulsive behavior. The work offers readers insight into the biological forces that shape human desire and self control.
Genres: psychology, neuroscience, addiction, brain, non-fiction, academic
Vibes: informative, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: informative, scientific
256 pages · Paperback · ONEWorld Publications
Content warnings: addiction, substance-abuse