Scientists
used to think that when neural pathways were made, they were
permanent. We now know that the brain is capable of being changed. It
has plasticity. We can literally rewire it.
The
basis of Chilton's book is a mind theory known as dual process
reasoning. It provides a practical framework, Chilton says, to
describe our actions and feelings. He describes two systems of
thinking. System 1 is always on and we can't stop or edit the
signals. It is controlled by our unconscious fears and instincts and is
highly influenced by experiences from childhood. System 2 is more
deliberate and logical. It is responsible for conscious thought and
reasoning. System 2 is where we reflect God's image and can have a
relationship with Him. It allows for self-reflection and the making
of moral decisions. It can have control over System 1 but that
requires effort and the use of disciplines.
Much
of this book is about the two systems, how they work, and the results
they produce. Chilton also shares many of his own experiences. After
two failed marriages and suffering from high blood pressure and
depression, he was prompted to study the brain. He found this model
to be the most important discovery of his life. (36)
Chilton
believes “surrendering your System 1 dysfunctions, your old way of
living and thinking, to God . . . provides the critical mechanism
that makes brain rewiring possible.” (239) He suggests the journey
“will include a great deal of contemplative prayer and meditation”
as you build new thought patterns, co-creating along with God. (242) The
importance of forgiveness is emphasized too. He suggests finding
professional help as many issues are deeper than what this book
addresses.
Chilton
has done a good job of explaining behavior and why the brain needs to
be rewired. While there is a plan for rewiring included at the end of
the book, it seems more like an exercise in self-discovery than
actual brain rewiring. He does say that these last chapters in the
book are just a preliminary road map for the journey. I have read
other books on brain plasticity that have been more practical in
their exercises and techniques offered.
Chilton
reminds us that he is not a licensed counselor. He has written this book
from his research and personal experience. I recommend this book to
those who are looking for a model explaining dysfunctional behavior.
I also recommend the book to those who are looking for a process of
self discovery. If you are looking to seriously rewire your brain,
you will find only the beginning of the journey here.
Food
for thought: “Rewiring our minds takes months, even years.”
(247-8)
My
rating: 3/5 stars.
Ski
Chilton is a professor in the department of physiology and
pharmacology at Wake Forest School of Medicine. He has authored or
coauthored more than 130 scientific articles and four books. He lives
in North Carolina. You can find out more at
https://drskichilton.com/.
Margaret
Rukstalis is an addiction psychiatrist who has studied the brain and
behavior for over twenty-five years. She is currently on faculty at
Wake Forest School of Medicine. She lives in North Carolina.
A.
J. Gregory is the author of two books and has partnered with others
to write memoirs and self-help books. She lives in New Jersey.
Baker
Books, 288 pages.
I
received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the
purpose of an independent and honest review.
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