Throughout history, humans have attempted to influence and control the
thoughts of others. Since the word 'brainwashing' was coined in the
aftermath of the Korean War, it has become part of the popular culture
and been exploited to create sensational headlines. It has also been the
subject of learned discussion from many disciplines: including history,
sociology, psychology, and psychotherapy. But until now, a crucial part
of the debate has been missing: that of any serious reference to the
science of the human brain. Descriptions of how opinions can be changed,
whether by persuasion, deceit, or force, have been almost entirely
psychological.
In Brainwashing, Kathleen Taylor brought the worlds of neuroscience
and social psychology together for the first time. In elegant and
accessible prose, and with abundant use of anecdotes and case-studies,
she examines the ethical problems involved in carrying out the required
experiments on humans, the limitations of animal models, and the
frightening implications of such research. She also explores the history
of thought-control and shows how it persists all around us, from
marketing and television, to politics and education.
This edition includes a new preface from the author reflecting on the
uses of brainwashing today, including by the Islamic State.
Oxford Landmark Science books are 'must-read' classics of modern science
writing which have crystallized big ideas, and shaped the way we
think.
