The Master and His Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World

A pioneering exploration of the brain's hemispheres and their impact on society, history, and culture

“One of the few contemporary works deserving classic status.” — Nicholas Shakespeare, Times, UK
“Persuasively argues that our society is suffering from the consequences of an over-dominant left hemisphere losing touch with its natural regulative ‘master’ the right. Brilliant and disturbing.” — Salley Vickers, Guardian Best Book of the Year
“I know of no better exposition of the current state of functional brain neuroscience.” — W. F. Bynum, Times Literary Supplement

Why is the brain divided?

The division between the brain's right and left hemispheres has puzzled thinkers for centuries. Renowned psychiatrist, author, and thinker Iain McGilchrist draws upon a vast body of brain research to reveal that the difference between the two sides is profound—representing two whole, coherent, but incompatible ways of experiencing the world.

• The Left Hemisphere: Prefers mechanisms to living things, is detail-oriented, and is inclined to self-interest.
• The Right Hemisphere: Has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity.

A journey through Western culture

In the second part of the book, McGilchrist takes readers on a fascinating journey through the history of Western culture. He illustrates the tension between these two hemispheric "worlds" by exploring the thoughts and beliefs of influential thinkers and artists—from Aeschylus to Magritte.

Ultimately, McGilchrist argues that the left hemisphere, despite its inferior grasp of reality, is increasingly taking precedence in today’s world—with potentially disastrous consequences.