Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation

For centuries, we have separated mind from matter. While physicists have pursued a theory of ‘everything’ with single-minded purpose, the matter of the mind, of human consciousness, has been conveniently sidestepped and ignored – consigned to priests, philosophers and poets.

With the ambition of Stephen Hawking, Carlo Rovelli and Brian Cox, Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation sets out a bold new vision for theoretical physics, unrestricted by sleek equations and neat formulations. Combining cutting-edge neuroscience with the latest in quantum mechanics, acclaimed writer Musser offers a new interpretation of human consciousness. From bizarre cognitive phenomena, like lucid dreaming and self-taught synaesthesia, to the latest technological developments in AI, Musser asks: what can physics teach us about what it means to be human?

Reviews: ‘A delightful account of one of the deepest and most fascinating explorations going on today.’ -Carlo Rovelli

‘The renowned science writer George Musser has taken on one of our time’s greatest issues: AI, how it works, and what makes it so powerful. This masterfully written book shows a surprising connection with theoretical physics.’ -Max Tegmark, author of Life 3.0

‘Musser is to be applauded for tackling both consciousness and the quantum realm… He joins a distinguished list of thinkers… Musser’s book is readable and enthusiastic, packed with first-person anecdotes.’ -TLS

‘[Musser] has assembled a vast array of ideas from developments in artificial intelligence, heterodox interpretations of modern physics, and philosophies of science and mind, and has interviewed many of the scientists and philosophers behind these theories.’ -Washington Post

‘The philosopher Immanuel Kant wrote once: \”The starry heavens begin at the place I occupy in the external world of sense, and they broaden the connection in which I stand into an unbounded magnitude of worlds beyond worlds.\” In this captivating book, George Musser takes us on a fascinating tour of the modern, surprising connections scientists discover between the cosmos and our inner world of consciousness.’ -Mario Livio, astrophysicist and author of The Golden Ratio

Format: Hardback
Pages: 336
Imprint: Oneworld
Publication date: 27/02/2024