On Task: How Our Brain Gets Things Done

Cognitive neuroscientist David Badre presents On Task, an authoritative introduction to the neuroscience of cognitive control. He explores how our brains devise sophisticated actions to achieve our goals, affecting our well-being. Drawing on cutting-edge research, clinical case studies, and examples from daily life, Badre sheds light on the evolution and inner workings of cognitive control, including multitasking, willpower, habitual errors, and bad decision-making. He shows that cognitive control affects just about everything we do.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

Why is it difficult to text and drive simultaneously? How can you resist the temptation of eating that extra piece of cake? Why does the act of staring at a tax form feel mentally taxing? Why can your child effortlessly fix the computer but still forget to put on a coat? From the simple act of making a cup of coffee to the complex process of buying a house and even making a significant impact on the world around them, humans possess a remarkable ability to carry out the necessary actions. How do we accomplish this? Or, in other words, how do our brains get things done?

In his book "On Task," cognitive neuroscientist David Badre presents the first comprehensive exploration of the neuroscience of cognitive control, revealing the remarkable ways in which our brains devise intricate actions to achieve our goals. This intricate process, often overlooked in our daily lives, holds a profound impact on our well-being.

Drawing on the latest research, captivating clinical case studies, and real-life examples, Badre delves into the evolution and inner workings of cognitive control. He examines a range of topics, including multitasking, willpower, habitual errors, and poor decision-making. He also explores the changes that occur in our brains during childhood and throughout our lifespan, as well as what happens when cognitive control fails.

Ultimately, Badre demonstrates that cognitive control influences virtually every aspect of our behavior. "On Task" offers a revealing glimpse into the brain's crucial role in shaping human behavior, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms that enable us to navigate the complexities of our lives.

Weight: 326g
Dimension: 134 x 339 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691234700