Mental Biology: The New Science of How the Brain and Mind Relate

In his 17th book, Klemm (Atoms of Mind) mixes some basic science, self-help advice, and an uncomfortable dose of political diatribe. The scientific portion attempts to explain the relationship between mind and brain, focusing on such issues as the nature and role of consciousness, the purpose of sleep and dreams, and whether free will exists. The writing is both opaque and repetitive while largely dismissing those who disagree with his perspectives. Beyond that, Klemm leaps between topics to such an extent that it is difficult to follow his arguments. He frequently goes beyond the bounds of science, arguing that dark energy might power the brain and that near-death experiences suggest that there is an afterlife, and his simplistic self-help program consists chiefly of telling readers that they need to take responsibility for their actions. Klemm bizarrely compares monkeys raised without physical contact to Muslim students studying in Madrassas, asking “Are Madrassas nurseries for suicide bombers? You bet.” He also weighs in on abortion-rights activists, the ills of pot smoking, and the value of military boot camps for “unruly teenagers.” The book is flawed, but the illogical and extreme political diatribe makes the work unfit for serious consideration. (Apr.)