Spinal Catastrophism: A Secret History by Thomas Moynihan

Description

Spinal Catastrophism: A Secret History by Thomas Moynihan is a bold and unconventional exploration of the relationship between human cognition, the nervous system, and the history of philosophy. The book examines how the structure of the spinal cord and the evolutionary development of the nervous system have influenced human thought, perception, and our understanding of existence. Moynihan weaves together insights from philosophy, neuroscience, evolutionary biology, and speculative thought to present a radical thesis: that the human spine plays a crucial but often overlooked role in shaping our cognitive and existential experiences. He engages with thinkers such as Friedrich Nietzsche, Georges Bataille, and Henri Bergson, alongside scientific perspectives on neurology and evolution, to argue that our philosophical and cultural ideas are deeply rooted in the body's physiological structures. This work delves into the notion of "catastrophism"—the idea that human consciousness and intelligence emerged through dramatic evolutionary and neurological upheavals. By linking the history of ideas to the biological and anatomical transformations of the human body, Spinal Catastrophism offers a unique and provocative perspective on how we think and why we think the way we do. With its interdisciplinary approach and speculative depth, the book is a fascinating read for those interested in philosophy of mind, speculative realism, and the intersections of biology and metaphysics.