Incognito

One day, a normally calm friend suddenly lashes out in anger. A typically diligent person behaves in an unexpected, irrational way. In such moments, we can’t help but feel confused. It’s easy to dismiss these incidents as personality quirks or the result of stress. But neuroscience suggests a deeper explanation: these behaviors often stem from the unconscious—the part of the mind we’re unaware of. In other words, our brains may be steering us without our knowing.

Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain is written by American neuroscientist David Eagleman. A researcher at Stanford University, Eagleman is known for his work in making complex neuroscience accessible through books and media. In this book, he reveals how much of what we believe to be conscious decision-making is actually governed by unconscious brain processes. He shows, through a range of examples, how our thoughts, emotions, habits, and even criminal actions can be shaped by the hidden workings of the brain.

One of the most powerful stories in the book involves a man who suddenly committed a horrific mass shooting. Later, a tumor was discovered in his brain—pressing on the region that controls emotion and impulse. This case forces us to reconsider snap judgments like “He’s just a bad person.” Through stories like this, Eagleman argues that we must factor in brain health when judging and punishing criminal behavior. Rather than defaulting to punishment, treatment and rehabilitation might be more appropriate in some cases.

The book also emphasizes that what we think of as “the self” is actually the product of multiple brain regions working together—often in conflict. Different areas of the brain compete and collaborate, much like political factions, to make decisions. Eagleman’s description of internal mental conflict as a neurological tug-of-war is both compelling and enlightening.

This book isn’t just for readers who are deeply interested in neuroscience. It’s also valuable for anyone who’s ever wondered why they feel certain emotions or act in ways they can’t quite explain. For instance, procrastinating during exam season or breaking a diet in front of a tempting dessert—these aren’t just matters of willpower. They’re influenced by unconscious brain activity. After reading this book, you may find yourself blaming yourself less and instead becoming more curious about your brain.

That said, the book doesn’t offer highly technical or academically rigorous explanations. It leans more on relatable examples and metaphors than complex experiments and theories. For readers seeking deep scientific analysis, it may feel a bit light. However, its real strength lies in its ability to make the complex topic of the unconscious brain understandable to everyone.

Just as the Korean title—How the Unconscious Designs Me—suggests, we like to believe that we shape who we are. But in reality, it’s our brains—especially the unconscious parts—that are shaping us. This book helps reveal that hidden sculptor, prompting us to reflect more deeply on ourselves. To understand the brain is, ultimately, to understand ourselves. And that’s the first step toward making better choices.