Are We Unique? A Scientist Explores the Unparalleled Intelligence of the Human Mind

By James S. Trefil

Book Overview

Acclaim for Are We Unique?

""In his masterful book, Trefil shares with readers some of the most recent research in neurology, evolution, primate research, computer science, and philosophy. Trefil's prose is lively and engaging."" --Boston Globe

""Trefil's race through the science that could explain the brain is highly readable."" --Sunday Times of London

""In a provocative essay, Trefil argues that the science of artificial intelligence is progressing rapidly. Machines, he theorizes, will one day develop a new kind of intelligence and self-awareness. So, maybe the real question is: Are we ready?"" --San Diego Union-Tribune

""A highly readable and engaging treatment of a fascinating question. Trefil makes a case for human uniqueness while at the same time celebrating the achievements of creations ranging from lobsters to neural nets. A provocative and enjoyable book."" --Daniel L. Schacter Professor and Chair of Psychology, Harvard University author of Searching for Memory

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0471249467
• ISBN13: 9780471249467
• Release Date: February 1998
• Publisher: Trade Paper Press
• Length: 256 Pages
• Weight: 0.80 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 6.2" x 8.0"

Customer Reviews

informative and highly readable

Trefil gives nice basic summaries of the current states of research in animal intelligence and computer intelligence to see how close these really come to "uniquely" human intelligence. Though I did not find Trefil's quest to prove human intelligence "unique," all that compelling, I thought the book served as an excellent discussion of animal, computer, and human intelligence