The Science of Fate

The New Science of Who We Are - And How to Shape our Best Future

Hannah Critchlow author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Hodder & Stoughton

Published:2nd May '19

Should be back in stock very soon

The Science of Fate cover

This thought-provoking book explores the extent to which our lives may be predetermined by neuroscience, challenging perceptions of free will and offering insights into how we can influence our futures.

In "The Science of Fate," neuroscientist Hannah Critchlow explores the intricate relationship between our biology and the choices we make, challenging the notion of free will. Drawing on insights from neuroscience, she reveals that many aspects of our lives may be predetermined by the wiring of our brains. This thought-provoking examination prompts readers to reconsider their understanding of destiny and autonomy, suggesting that our decisions about love, food, and beliefs may not be as free as we think.

Critchlow delves into how our unconscious minds influence our choices, often without our awareness. For instance, she discusses how anxieties and phobias can be inherited across generations, and how our genetic makeup and brain chemistry dictate behaviors like eating habits. The book presents intriguing findings, such as our ability to subconsciously identify ideal partners based on genetic compatibility, which can impact the survival of our offspring. These revelations underscore the complexity of human behavior and the factors that shape our experiences.

Ultimately, "The Science of Fate" is both enlightening and accessible, blending scientific research with relatable examples from everyday life. Critchlow not only illuminates the potential dangers of understanding our predetermined paths but also empowers readers to take actionable steps toward shaping their futures. This book serves as a vital resource for anyone interested in the interplay between neuroscience and personal agency, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to be human in a world where our fates may be more intertwined with biology than we realize.

'It's been the question that has inspired, stultified and petrified humanity across the millennia. What is our fate? From the goddess Nemesis to the theory of free will we've struggled. Until now. Acute, mind-opening, highly accessible - this book doesn't just explain how our lives might pan out, it helps us live better.' -- Bettany Hughes
'A humane and highly readable account of the neuroscience that underpins our ideas of free will and fate' -- Professor David Runciman
'A truly fascinating - if unnerving - read' * The Telegraph *

ISBN: 9781473659285

Dimensions: 240mm x 162mm x 26mm

Weight: 462g

256 pages