Emotional Ignorance

After losing his dad, a neuroscientist goes on a journey of discovery into where our emotions come from, what purpose they serve, and why they make us feel the way they do.

Recommended by the New Scientist.

'Brilliant.' Stylist, 'Ten new books to bring you comfort and wisdom in 2023'

'Thoughtful and thought-provoking - you need to read this book' - Gina Rippon

'An affecting and illuminating book for anyone who has feelings, and who wants to know why.' - Katie Mack

'The master of understated humour.' BBC Radio Scotland

Why can't we think straight when hungry? What's the point of nightmares? And why is it so impossible to forget embarrassing memories?

Emotions can be a pain. After losing his dad to Covid-19, Dean Burnett found himself wondering what life would be like without them. And so, he decided to put his feelings under the microscope – for science.

In Emotional Ignorance, Dean takes us on an incredible journey of discovery, stretching from the origins of life to the end of the universe. Along the way he reveals:

- why we would ever follow our gut;
- whether things really were better in the old days;
- why doomscrolling is so addictive;
- and how sad music can make us happier.

Combining expert analysis, brilliant humour and powerful insights into the grieving process, Dean uncovers how, far from holding us back, our emotions make us who we are.