The Brain That Changes Itself

I very much enjoyed The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge, MD which explains the notion of neuroplasticity and how the brain can make changes to itself when the need arises.  These changes can also be manipulated in the laboratory with non-human subjects.  The stories about the use of animals in the experiments may be confronting for some readers.  There are some remarkable examples in humans such as a woman who was born with only half a brain.  The remaining brain took over the functions of the missing half and the woman suffered no negative effects.  The author also provides an extensive history of the scientists who have researched the brain and found it to be "plastic".  There is an explanation of "phantom" pain experienced in amputated body parts e.g. legs.  There is very good research being done in this field.  The brain "maps" are not rigid and can be changed when necessary.  This is a fascinating book which tells us so much about how our brains function. 41/2/5