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  • The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind

  • Written by: Julian Jaynes
  • Narrated by: James Patrick Cronin
  • Length: 16 hrs and 1 min
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (39 ratings)

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The Origin of Consciousness in the Breakdown of the Bicameral Mind

Written by: Julian Jaynes
Narrated by: James Patrick Cronin
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Publisher's Summary

At the heart of this classic, seminal book is Julian Jaynes' still-controversial thesis that human consciousness did not begin far back in animal evolution but instead is a learned process that came about only 3,000 years ago and is still developing. The implications of this revolutionary scientific paradigm extend into virtually every aspect of our psychology, our history and culture, our religion - and indeed our future.

©1976, 1990 Julian Jaynes (P)2015 Audible, Inc.
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must read book

I think this should be part of essential syllabus. Immense in breadth and depth of erudition, the author has analyzed ancient literature, archeological evidence and modern brain research to elaborate his theory of the evolution of consciousness.

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An beautifully crafted theory from a genius

This is my favourite audiobook which I own and it is difficult to explain why this theory is so ingenious. It takes its time to lay the foundation of human consciousness and cognition and is by no means an easy read. However, if you have the patience or are looking for an intellectual challenge, this book will provide it. Jayne's prosaic format was written with devotion and cleverness, and his theory deserves renewed interest in the annals of academics. Consciousness is remarkable and this book explains how the conscious awareness humans possess did not always exist in the human lineage; rather, it evolved with our language and religions. Jayne's discusses the historical evidence for such a bold claim and details his theory of the "Bicameral Mind", and mental system which would have allowed early humans to organize themselves into complex societies and eventually entire civilizations. This theory is explained in immaculate detail, and although it can become somewhat repetitive, the theory is so mind-blowing that it is worth reading just to experience the stunning revelations it has in store.
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3 people found this helpful