Neuroscientist Henning Beck writes about the human brain’s weaknesses and the importance of these weaknesses for optimal brain function. Beck provides descriptions of brain function relating to memory, forgetting, mental blackouts, concentration, distraction, decision making, risk taking, and creativity. He reveals the benefits of mistake making and the detrimental effects of stress. He explains why the brain is a poor calculator, explores why the brain can’t track time, and provides reasons for our tendency to pigeonhole and stereotype. He discusses the effects of technology use on brain function and emphasizes the importance of giving ourselves “brain-breaks.” Analogies, real-life scenarios, and research studies exemplify the neuroscience presented.

352 pp., 6 × 9"

Source: Association of Book Publishers of BC - BC Books for Schools (2021-2022)

Henning Beck's profile page

Henning Beck received his PhD in neuroscience from the Graduate School of Cellular & Molecular Neuroscience, University of Tübingen, and holds an international diploma in Project Management from the University of California Berkeley. He is a frequent lecturer, workshop leader, science slam speaker, and consultant on topics such as neuroscience and creativity.

“Illuminating, and a joy to read, [Scatterbrain] offers, in comparison to other recent neuroscience titles, a refreshingly accessible and relatable take on the brain’s inner workings that should appeal to both science buffs and casual readers.”
—Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

“Scatterbrain is the perfect explanation for one’s great achievements and an excellent excuse for those frequent mishaps.”
—The Psychologist

“There are so many fascinating nuggets of information in this book… All in all, a romp of a read.”
— Human Givens Journal

“Being scatterbrained has long been seen as a disadvantage, but as a neuroscientist, Henning Beck knows better. His engaging book will convince you that forgetting helps you remember and distractions can make you more creative.”
—Adam Grant, New York Times bestselling author of Originals and Give and Take, and host of TED's WorkLife podcast

“Beck is definitely a scientist of the people and his approach ensures that all readers can glean something intriguing from this book's pages.”
— Booklist

“For anyone who has ever momentarily blanked on a name, choked under pressure, or kicked themselves for making a 'careless' mistake, you may now forgive yourself. With this insightful and accessible book, Beck humorously sledgehammers the notion that our brains are infallible.”
—Zach Schonbrun, author of The Performance Cortex

“In an era of continuous self-optimization, Scatterbrain by German neuroscientist Dr. Henning Beck offers novel insights on our often self-defeating pursuit of perfection, and provides a roadmap to more creative thinking and better decision-making to realize one’s full potential. A must-read!”
—Sandra Navidi, Founder and CEO of BeyondGlobal and author of $uperHubs

“Scatterbrain is a brilliant and engaging user’s guide to the brain, masterfully transforming discoveries from neuroscience into practical personal insights and disruptive corporate practice.”
—Donald Hoffman, Professor of Cognitive Sciences at the University of California, and author of The Case Against Reality

“The brain is a messy, faulty wonder, and if we could all agree that perfection is not the mind’s ultimate goal, we would be much better off. Henning Beck shows us how to appreciate our imperfect brains—and is fine with readers straying from the page from time to time!”
—Ylva Østby, author of Adventures in Memory