Michelle Miller
Norton
16 February 2027
272
eBook - PDF
Non-Fiction
ARC via Edelweiss
A myth-busting examination of the science of attention, beyond alarmist narratives and a myopic focus on “focus.”
It’s become a truism to say that attention is an endangered resource. But what if focus isn’t everything, tech isn’t eroding our long-term cognitive capacity, and there’s actually no such thing as “attention span”? Rising above the chorus of alarmist claims, The Attention Spectrum challenges conventional wisdom by offering a new paradigm for understanding attention—one that’s more accurate, more positive, and more hopeful.
Drawing on cutting-edge research, cognitive scientist Michelle Miller shows that attention is much more than sustained concentration, and that each of us has our own “attentional profile”—none of which is inherently better than another. She illuminates how we can work with our different attentional strengths and weaknesses, what truly threatens attention, and how to safeguard it. As optimistic as it is pragmatic, The Attention Spectrum is a refreshing guide to becoming a more empowered, compassionate steward of your mind in a distracted world.
The Attention Spectrum was a fascinating read. I was interested to learn more about scientific theories on attention and focus and how they compare to the material often seen in mainstream media these days. I could certainly see some of my own attention patterns in the examples given. Notably, I do tend to find myself overcome by media multi-tasking, drawn to check my phone for messages as I watch TV, and now I am aware of it I will try to do that less. This is a worthwhile read for anyone interested in understanding how attention and focus works in their daily lives. The only thing the book was lacking for me was some more concrete exercises and things to try to break away from the tendencies interfering with attention. A couple of things were mentioned, but I would have liked a little more on that front. I am giving this one 4 stars.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
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