Mirror Thinking: How Role Models Make Us Human

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Parents, friends, teachers, relatives, and even work colleagues from the people close to us to those we never even meet other people are constantly shaping who we are. The mirror neuron is a part of the brain that has shaped each and every one of us throughout our lifetimes. It is the very essence of what makes us human, but most of us have never even heard of it. Mirror Thinking explores how the mirror neuron has defined us through the role models we observe and interact with. All of the learning we take from our world is down to our brains mirror system, but it doesnt stop there. This incredible system is also responsible for our emotional connections with others, how we pass on learning between the generations through stories, and how we imagine and innovate within our own minds. In Mirror Thinking, psychologist and award-winning author Fiona Murden looks at the mirrors that have shaped our lives: parents, friends, teachers, relatives, and even work colleagues. From the people close to us to those we never even meet other people are constantly shaping who we are. By having a better understanding of this system we are able to take conscious control of it, encouraging us to have a more positive impact on the world around us and on society as a whole.

Reviews

Written in an understandable, accessible way exploring complex neuroscience and psychology with some wonderful case studies and examples that bring it all to life. It is a book that anyone will enjoy and learn from what more can you ask for -- David Sole, former Scotland Rugby Captain and Managing Partner at the School for CEOs
A very compelling and fascinating read. Fionas insights are incredibly useful both from a personal and professional standpoint, but also in the wider context of societal norms and our biases. -- Brenda Trenowden CBE, Global Chair of the 30% Club
Mirror Thinking, Fiona Murdens investigation into role models and how we are influenced by others, takes a fresh look into our socially-networked world. She writes with panache and authority, and lightens the subject with her own personal touch. Mirror Thinking holds a mirror up to our behaviour, our world, and how we can change things for the better; it is solidly researched, engagingly presented and packed with fascinating insights. -- Sir Dermot Turing, author of Prof: Alan Turing Decoded, trustee of the Turing Trust and the Bletchley Park Visiting Fellow at Kellogg College, Oxford.
An insightful and thought-provoking read, providing a different lens to understanding ourselves and others through the mirror system. This is a highly recommended read for anyone who is keen to reflect and consciously try to improve themselves and their interactions with others, but also help shape a better world. -- Maria Fasli, UNESCO Chair in Analytics and Data Science, Director of Institute for Analytics and Data Science, University of Essex
Mirror thinking is something we all do and Fiona provides insight on how this influences not just our life but those around us. I highly recommend adding this book to your collection. -- David Smith, Nike Athlete, two time World Champion and London 2012 gold medalist

Author Bio

Fiona Murden is a Chartered Psychologist, Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, author and public speaker. She gained an MSc in Psychology from the University of London, and started her career at Andersen Consulting. Fiona has worked with high performers from across industries, sport, business and politics for the last 16 years, helping them to achieve optimal performance. Her speaking commitments take her from the Cabinet Office and the NHS to the Oxford Literary Festival and Red Smart Womans Week. Fionas first book, Defining You, was Silver winner at the Axion Business Book Awards and was shortlisted for the Business Book of the Year. In addition to her writing and speaking commitments, Fiona is founder of the charity Dot-to-Dot aimed at joining the dots on human behaviour.