Talking Heads

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What to expect

Brought to you by Penguin.

Language and talking is part of what makes us human. It forms the basis of all our lives.

Every day we speak to ourselves and to each other, about ourselves and about others. Whether ruminating on a past event alone or gossiping with a group of friends, we move through life in a state of near-constant chatter - even during those moments we profess to wanting nothing more than some peace and quiet.

So, why do we do it, and what purpose does talking serve? In this paean to conversation, neuroscientist Shane O'Mara encourages us to marvel at our brains distinct mechanisms for communicating. In the process, he reveals how our unique ability to remember and, critically, our instinct to share memories fashions the world as we know it: a complex social world born out of thoughts and feelings, modified by the stories we tell about ourselves and others, divided by constructed borders and shared cultures, and propelled forward by our longing for a better, alternative tomorrow.

Talking Heads is a deep dive into the science of how we talk, why we speak to each other, and what happens when we do. From neurons to nations, this is the story of how conversation shapes us and builds the world around us.

©2023 Shane O'Mara (P)2023 Penguin Audio

Critics Review

  • Delightfully well-written, accessible, surprisingly reflecting … and humorous

    Niamh Jiménez, Irish Times

  • Surprising… intriguing… enjoyable

    New Scientist

  • In this time of digital disconnection, Talking Heads is a reminder of the enduring power of face-to-face interactions and conversations. It is a thoughtful book that might make you watch what you say.

    Irish Independent

  • O’Mara delves deeply into the ways we use conversations to create our cultures and build entire nations … There’s a lot in it that resonates

    Irish Times

  • Fascinating … The author’s lucid exploration of how we communicate stretches from neurons to nations [and] strikes an informed, accessible tone … Talking Heads is seasoned with intriguing facts

    Sunday Business Post

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