The Roving Mind: A Modern Approach to Cognitive Enhancement

Anthony Simola writes knowledgeably about everything to do with cognitive improvement. He provides a continuous stream of information that might best be digested in small doses. He really does deliver on the how-to measure. But loses points for failing to truly engage his audience. Treasure trove of information. But textbook rather than self improvement book irrespective of the subject matter.

Anthony Simola's book contains a lot of material to stomach at once, and I suggest you digest it in smaller bits. Although I am more or less experienced in the area of nootropics (and cognitive enhancement more generally) I found this book to be quite enticing as well as a useful introduction for potential newcomers to the field.

"The Roving Mind: A Modern Approach to Cognitive Enhancement" is an excellent introduction to the field of nootropics and other techniques of enhancing one's intelligence. Perhaps unconventionally, Simola adopts a broader definition of cognitive enhancement than most of his fellow authors, covering specific ways of growing smarter yet at the same time laying out a general strategy for going about mental self-improvement. Erudite and clear, the narrative lays out concrete tips and hacks while placing the burden of experimentation on the reader. That, arguably, remains the book's greatest weakness: although the content is valuable in and by itself, one must conduct research independently when making personal decisions concerning this new and exciting type of performance-enhancement. Dividing the work into three parts seems only logical -- the first one introduces the field of cognitive enhancement accompanied with techniques for novices as well as advice on behavioral methods such as diet modification, physical exercise, and rest. The second part delves further into more advanced mental techniques (mnemonics, speed-reading, and technology.) Simola also critically examines the claims of ancient schools of thought (including Chinese and Brahmic medicine) without succumbing to youthful credulity. The third section moves past tactics and strategy to neuroenhancement's societal and ethical implications, discussing everything from legal regulation to the advent of superintelligence. On a topic that seems hopelessly used up, Simola somehow manages to say something both original and satisfying. In this spirit, the book conclude with a concise, optimistic epilogue. Evidently meticulously researched, the book's endnotes make for an entertaining stand-alone read, or alternatively, a dense repository of more technical knowledge for an academic reader. A thorough and practical title for beginners and researchers alike.