Explanation and Critical Thinking in the Neurosciences

David Parker is a neurophysiologist and Senior Lecturer in the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience at the University of Cambridge. His research focuses on critical thinking, as well as the philosophy and sociology of science. Dr. Parker has taught courses related to neurobiology and translational neuroscience for fifteen years.

• List of Figures; Preface; 1. Introduction to Neuroscience Aims and Claims; 2. Falsification, Paradigms and Research Programs; 3. Logical Fallacies; 4. Knowledge, Explanation and Understanding; 5. Neurobiological Reduction; 6. Neuronal Circuits; 7. Claims to Understanding; 8. Experimental Tools in Neuroscience; 9. Translational Neuroscience; 10. The Sociology of (Neuro)science; Postscript; Glossary; Bibliography; Index.

'It's a virtual given among most scientists, especially the experts, that critical thinking skills “come with the territory”: that basic scientific training provides them. David Parker, a neuroscientist, challenges this assumption, and seeks in this wonderfully concise book to inculcate a realization in younger neuroscientists of the need to acquire these skills, and a manner to do so. Three cheers!' John Bickle, Professor of Philosophy and Shackouls Honors College Faculty, Mississippi State University, and Scientist-Educator, Department of Advanced Biomedical Education, University of Mississippi Medical Center