The Mind & The Brain

A “fascinating” and groundbreaking work of science that demonstrates the possibilities for human control over the workings of the brain (Cleveland Plain Dealer).

Conventional science has long held that “the mind” is an illusion, a mere side effect of electrochemical activity in the physical brain. The Mind & The Brain argues exactly the opposite: that the mind has a life of its own. Dr. Schwartz, a leading researcher in brain dysfunctions, and Wall Street Journal science columnist Sharon Begley demonstrate that the human mind is an independent entity that can shape and control the functioning of the physical brain. Their work has its basis in our emerging understanding of adult neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to be rewired not just in childhood, but throughout life, a trait only recently established by neuroscientists.

Through decades treating patients with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), Schwartz made an extraordinary finding: While following the therapy he developed, his patients were effecting significant and lasting changes in their own neural pathways. It was a scientific first: By actively focusing their attention away from negative behaviors and toward more positive ones, they were using their minds to reshape their brains—a thrilling new dimension to the concept of neuroplasticity.

The Mind & The Brain follows Schwartz as he investigates this newly discovered power, which he calls self-directed neuroplasticity or, more simply, mental force. It describes his work with noted physicist Henry Stapp and connects the concept of mental force with the ancient Buddhist practice of mindfulness. And it points to potential new applications that could transform the treatment of almost every variety of neurological dysfunction, from dyslexia to stroke—and could lead to new strategies to help us harness our mental powers. Yet as wondrous as these implications are, perhaps even more important is the philosophical dimension of Schwartz’s work—for the existence of mental force offers convincing scientific evidence of human free will, and thus of man’s inherent capacity for moral choice.

“The medical results and treatments they summarize are exciting and deserve widespread attention.” —Publishers Weekly

“An adventurous exploration of some of the hardest questions in contemporary science . . . pathbreaking.” —Colin McGinn, author of The Making of a Philosopher

“The authors offer the first scientific proof that validates the power of mindfulness in shaping the brain. This work opens new vistas for revolutionary applications of mindfulness-based treatment in neuropsychiatric dysfunction.” —Journal of Child and Family Studies