Marcus, Gary F

Explores the most effective way to train the brain and body to learn to play an instrument and discusses whether people have or need to be born with musical ability.

The first text of its kind, The Norton Psychology Reader brings together a balanced selection of provocative writings, the majority of them from trade publications. Engaging a wide variety of topics in psychology, this collection showcases the work of dozens of the finest thinkers and observers in the field, from historical figures like William James and Sigmund Freud to contemporary writers like Steven Pinker, Sylvia Nasar, and Malcolm Gladwell." "Either as a text that is sure to inform research and enliven classroom discussion or as a layperson's guide to the study of mind and behavior, this fine collection will leave the reader wanting more.

Explains how a small number of genes carry the instructions for building the complex human brain and reveals common misconceptions people have about genes.

Contends that evolution is responsible for the imperfections in the way the human mind works and uses cognitive and evolutionary psychology to explain mental flaws.

Explores the most effective way to train the brain and body to learn to play an instrument and discusses whether people have or need to be born with musical ability.