Emotional Ignorance: Misadventures in the Science of Emotion

Recommended by the New Scientist.

'Brilliant.' Stylist

'Thoughtful and thought-provoking – you need to read this book' Gina Rippon

'An affecting and illuminating book for anyone who has feelings, and who wants to know why.' Katie Mack

Emotions can be a pain. After losing his dad to Covid-19, Dean Burnett found himself wondering what life would be like without them. And so, he decided to put his feelings under the microscope – for science.

In Emotional Ignorance, Dean takes us on an incredible journey of discovery, stretching from the origins of life to the end of the universe. Along the way he reveals:

- why we would ever follow our gut;
- whether things really were better in the old days;
- why doomscrolling is so addictive;
- and how sad music can make us happier.

Combining expert analysis, brilliant humour and powerful insights into the grieving process, Dean uncovers how, far from holding us back, our emotions make us who we are.

Readers love Emotional Ignorance:

‘Intriguing, illuminating and thought-provoking.’

‘A fascinating exploration of our emotions and how they enhance all of our lives (and why it doesn’t always feel that way).’

‘A scientific book about emotions that causes emotions. A wonder indeed.’