Psychology Interests

Over the years, I have collected a number of books on cognitive and perceptual psychology. It seems to me that it is the way we think that makes us the way we are, and the way we learn that allows us to improve on the way we think! I am much interested in the philosophical concepts behind thinking, and I enjoy the books by people such as Douglas Hofstadter and Daniel Dennett, and also Richard Gregory. On the subject of Richard Gregory, last year I visited the Exploratory in Bristol, with my grandson. I don't know who enjoyed it the most, but James, who was 6, had the most stamina! It is a hands-on science exhibition (originally devised by Richard Gregory), with all sorts of wonderful experiments being performed in cases at the touch of a button! Seriously instructive for the older child (including myself, here!) and endlessly entertaining for the younger ones.

Interesting books I have recently read include The Making Of Memory, by Steven Rose, and The Language Instinct by Steven Pinker. Both books are well described by their titles, and are thought provoking and well written.

Try The Psychology Connection for some interesting text and experiments on perception and illusion, or Lynda's Lively Links for some music cognition items, or music experiments.

I hope to expand on this in due course!