National Geographic Mind: A Scientific Guide to Who You Are, How You Got That Way, and How to Make the Most of It

Combining leading theories of psychology and behavior with case studies, personality quizzes, and practical advice, National Geographic Mind explores the question we all enjoy asking: Who am I? This whimsically illustrated reference explores today’s theories of personality, mixing scientific theory with an underlying message—by knowing more about your own psychology, you can have a better life. Chapters start with the anatomy, evolution, and development of the human brain, then move into such interesting areas as intuition, creativity, motivation, faith, and ethics—all facets of a unique personality.

Quirky, often funny, always thought-provoking photographs, cartoons, and illustrations bring the message home on every page. Interesting scenarios of mental health and mental deviance make for a lively, readable narrative that combines today’s leading theories in the science of the mind and personality with life-enhancing questions, quizzes, practices, and tools for self-discovery. An entertaining book about science, National Geographic Mind connects with the reader in a very personal and ultimately helpful way.

PATRICIA DANIELS is a writer and editor who specializes in science and history. She has been author or editor of a number of National Geographic books, including Complete Guide to Brain Health, The Body: A Complete User’s Guide, and, for kids, Ultimate Bodypedia. She lives in State College, Pennsylvania.

TODD B. KASHDAN is a professor of psychology at George Mason University and senior scientist at the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. A frequent radio, television, and print media contributor on how people and organizations can thrive, he has contributed feature articles to the New York Times Magazine and the Washington Post, and made regular appearances on NPR. He blogs for the Huffington Post and Psychology Today. He is coauthor of The Upside of Your Dark Side and Curious? He lives in Clifton, Virginia.