Based on empirical observations, this innovative book explores self-consciousness, how it originates and how it shapes our lives.

A cutting-edge, research-based inquiry into how we influence those around us and how understanding the brain can help us change minds for the better. In The Influential Mind, neuroscientist Tali Sharot takes us on a thrilling exploration of the nature of influence. We all have a duty to affect others—from the classroom to the boardroom to social media. But how skilled are we at this role, and can we become better? It turns out that many of our instincts—from relying on facts and figures to shape opinions, to insisting others are wrong or attempting to exert control—are ineffective, because they are incompatible with how people’s minds operate. Sharot shows us how to avoid these pitfalls, and how an attempt to change beliefs and actions is successful when it is well-matched with the core elements that govern the human brain. Sharot reveals the critical role of emotion in influence, the weakness of data and the power of curiosity. Relying on the latest research in neuroscience, behavioral economics and psychology, the book provides fascinating insight into the complex power of influence, good and bad.

Why are we so prone to guilt and embarrassment? Why do we care so much about how others see us, about our reputation? What are the origins of such afflictions? Philippe Rochat argues that it is because we are members of a species that evolved the unique propensity to reflect upon themselves as an object of thoughts; an object of thoughts that is potentially evaluated by others. But, the argument goes, this propensity comes from a basic fear: the fear of rejection, of being socially "banned" and ostracized. Others in Mind is about self-consciousness, how it originates and how it shapes our lives. Self-consciousness is arguably the most important and revealing of all psychological problems.

"Mind control" a term filled with mystery, intrigue, and fun. Control of the mind . . . what does it mean, really! So-called experts have been writing and arguing about the mind for as long as people have been able to communicate. The elusive and mystical control we seek is possible. In Mind Control, Dr. William Horton, Psy. D. takes us closer to the practical application of mental discipline for ourselves. Dr. Horton applies NLP communication techniques (special language to structure change in the mind) so that we can manage and control of others. This control takes the form of better understanding of what we see feel and hear as other talk to us. We are afforded the opportunity through these techniques to use the best possible angle while talking with others. In our culture, control can be regarded as a negative term. Here we use it as a positive action. When we say control, we really refer to the control of our own thoughts, our own state of mind, and the way we communicate. Dr. Horton uses his ability to break down systems and processes to share a new understanding of the function of the mind as we interact with the people around us. Can you imagine your life in a world where people simply do what you ask them to do? The processes outlined in this book will install the skills needed for maximum success. Self-control and mental discipline give you the ability to have more success in any part of your journey through career and personal goals. Personal relationships become more rewarding. You have an easy time controlling money. Your ability to retain information grows. This is all possible because you are choosing the way you communicate with yourself and the other players in your life. Imagine a life where you control your emotional reactions to the obstacles you encounter on your path to success. See yourself as an individual who can consider the effects your reactions have on others. Hear your own thoughts as they become useful to your goals. You can have all of this and more. All you must do is master the techniques in this book. Even more exciting news awaits you. With the techniques you learn, you can enable others to reach their dreams and goals in a more effective manner. It's easy to remember times in your life when you wanted other people to simply do what you have asked them to do. What if you knew exactly how to talk and act to get others to take action? The more you understand "mind control," the easier your interactions with other people become. As you remember each technique in this book, you will enjoy Dr. Horton's unique take on the material and his passion for life itself. Elsom Eldrige, author of "The Obvious Expert", Founder of The International Guild of Professional Consultants.

Most of us are continually aware that others have thoughts and feelings – but are children? When? This book is a concise and readable review of the extensive research into children’s understanding of what other people think and feel, a central topic in developmental psychology known as "Theory of Mind". The understanding of belief is central to this text, which explains in simple terms what representational theory of mind is all about, and shows how researchers have demonstrated this understanding in 4-year-olds. The book considers what leads to this understanding, including the role of pretend play, understanding of attention and eye direction, and other precursors to representational understanding of mind. The general relevance of theory of mind is demonstrated through coverage of the development of other mental state concepts, and the relationship between understanding mental representation and other representational media. The author also carefully summarizes current research on the relationship between theory of mind and concurrent developments in executive functioning, and the understanding of language. The book closes by considering autism. A major achievement of theory of mind research is the light it has helped throw on this puzzling developmental disorder. Providing a comprehensive overview of 25 years of research into theory of mind, the book will be of great interest to both students and researchers in psychology, philosophy and the cognitive sciences.

Why would someone write a book on Mind Control? Because as much as we try to elevate ourselves above being human animals we are, in fact, animals. We are subject to the wants and desires of any being with a genome and vertebrae. To rise above that is an admirable and a task we should take on as a worthy spiritual endeavor. But to deny that we are, truly, animals is to lie to ourselves. We must deal with people who may not be so enlightened advanced as we are. They may desire what we have and be secretly filled with envy and contempt. The worst event is to have these suspicions fulfilled and then be pulled down into the politics of man. Do we deny that it's happening and hope others will be touched by our honesty and good will enough to change? Or do we drop our highest spiritual ideals and play their game? I would like to suggest a radically different strategy. Take the game of manipulation and Mind Control and make it a part of your spirituality.

Introducing the Collins Modern Classics, a series featuring some of the most significant books of recent times, books that shed light on the human experience - classics which will endure for generations to come.