Divided Brains
The Biology and Behaviour of Brain Asymmetries

Discusses brain asymmetry from four perspectives - function, evolution, development and causation - covering a wide range of species, including humans.

Lesley J. Rogers (Author), Giorgio Vallortigara (Author), Richard J. Andrew (Author)

9781107005358, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 17 January 2013

234 pages, 40 b/w illus.
23.5 x 15.7 x 1.5 cm, 0.5 kg

'… a fascinating and awe-inspiring analysis of cerebral and behavioural asymmetries across the animal kingdom (in both vertebrate and invertebrate species), across experimental techniques and across time both historical and evolutionary. A remarkably charming aspect of this extraordinary book is that, although the authors do not renounce the use of technical terms and definitions to explain principles and functional mechanisms that govern asymmetric brain functions, the language is kept simple and flows very nicely throughout the text, which makes the book suited to a broader audience.' Marcello Siniscalchi, Laterality

Asymmetry of the brain and behaviour (lateralization) has traditionally been considered unique to humans. However, research has shown that this phenomenon is widespread throughout the vertebrate kingdom and found even in some invertebrate species. A similar basic plan of organisation exists across vertebrates. Summarising the evidence and highlighting research from the last twenty years, the authors discuss lateralization from four perspectives - function, evolution, development and causation - covering a wide range of animals, including humans. The evolution of lateralization is traced from our earliest ancestors, through fish and reptiles to birds and mammals. The benefits of having a divided brain are discussed, as well as the influence of experience on its development. A final chapter discusses outstanding problems and areas for further investigation. Experts in this field, the authors present the latest scientific knowledge clearly and engagingly, making this a valuable tool for anyone interested in the biology and behaviour of brain asymmetries.

List of illustrations
Preface
1. Introduction
2. Function
3. Evolution
4. Development
5. Causation
6. Applications and future directions
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Animal behaviour [PSVP], Developmental biology [PSC], Neurosciences [PSAN], Evolution [PSAJ], Biology, life sciences [PS], Physiological & neuro-psychology, biopsychology [JMM]