Mind in Motion: How Action Shapes Thought by Barbara Tversky

Mind in Motion: How Action Shapes Thought by Barbara Tversky is a captivating look at the power of action in shaping our different ways of thinking. As a leading scholar in cognitive science and psychology, Tversky puts research to use while exploring the many ways that action impacts our thought processes.

In Mind in Motion, Tversky focuses on the powerful connection between thought and movement. She argues that thought is embodied in our actions and that our choices are shaped by our physical environment. As she puts it, “Thinking is not just a process of mental associations, it is a physical process involving real action.”

To demonstrate her claim, Tversky examines the many ways that action shapes not only what we think but also how we think. She first looks at gestural language, which is a form of communication that relies heavily on physical movement. Tversky then investigates the link between physical coordination and mental facilities, showing how everyday skills such as handwriting, playing sports, and even playing music can be used to hone various cognitive abilities such as memory, intelligence, and creativity.

Tversky also looks at how our physical surroundings influence our thoughts. For example, she examines how our sense of touch impacts our mental processes and how the design of the spaces we inhabit can facilitate or detract from our ability to concentrate and remember. Throughout the book, Tversky draws on examples of how certain physical activities can produce different mental results.

In addition to delving into physical actions, Mind in Motion investigates our internal mental processes. Tversky explores how we use memories, symbols, and even our emotions to interpret the world we live in. She argues that our thoughts can be dramatically affected by our surroundings, from the way we view certain people to our inclination to think in certain patterns. Ultimately, Tversky believes that our thought processes are highly contingent upon the physical context in which we observe them.

Finally, Mind in Motion addresses the implications of action on thought. Tversky argues that understanding how our bodies and physical surroundings influence our mental processes can be used to promote positive change and performance increases. She advises to look at the “big picture” instead of focusing on individual activities, and provides several recommendations for how this concept can be translated into real-world applications.

In all, Mind in Motion provides an accessible look at a complex topic. Tversky’s vivid descriptions, supported by solid research, offer a thought-provoking read. Her insights suggest that certain physical activities can shape our thoughts, and that this knowledge can be used to improve our lives. Mind in Motion is a must-have for any reader interested in learning about how action impacts our thought processes.