Phi: A Voyage from the Brain to the Soul

Tononi (psychiatry; Univ. of Wisconsin; coauthor, with Gerald Edelman, A Universe of Consciousness: How Matter Becomes Imagination) here explores the concept of consciousness, using allegories for the isolated and integrated functions of each brain region. The narrative imagines Galileo on his deathbed, experiencing revelations about the nature of consciousness as he interacts with scientists including Francis Crick, Alan Turing, and Charles Darwin. Some scenes—such as the "Tale of Two Cities" fable, which contrasts the functions of the cerebral cortex and the cerebellum—effectively illustrate the integrated ("phi") nature of consciousness. Tononi offers a distinct means of framing consciousness that emphasizes holistic unity; other books, such asDaniel C. Dennett's Consciousness Explained present competing theories. This book will be of interest to those looking for a philosophical exploration of consciousness grounded in science.