This Is Your Brain on Music: The Science of a Human Obsession by Daniel Levitin

We live in a world where music is a commonplace activity, with access to music greater than ever before. Its prevalence and power over us is remarkable and seemingly impossible to explain. In his book, “This is Your Brain on Music: The Science of A Human Obsession”, Daniel Levitin takes a look at the science behind our love for music.

Levitin begins by exploring what music is from a neurological and physiological perspective. He explains the foundations of music, comprised of acoustic elements like frequency, amplitude, and timbre. Music is the combination of the information carried by these elements, generated in both audio and visual stimulation.

With this basic understanding established, Levitin then dives into why and how we are so obsessed with music. He explains how music plays on our emotions, evoking powerful memories, making us laugh or cry, and energizing us. Music can also provide a sense of safety or belonging. In addition, music can affect our behavior, like how happy music might cause us to dance, and how music can be used to help induce relaxation and meditation.

Levitin also takes an in-depth look into the effects of music on different audience types. He unpacks the role music can play in various contexts, from its impact on athletic performance to its application for children with Attention Deficit Disorder. He even looks into its supernatural qualities, like how it has sometimes been connected to healing, helping people with depression, and even reducing chronic pain symptoms.

The book also covers the role of language in music. Levitin breaks down the complex relationship between words and music and looks at how lyrics can add to the emotion of a song. He also investigates the controversy surrounding the use of music in advertising and its power to shape opinion.

Throughout the book, Levitin provides practical exercises and tips to help the reader better understand and engage with the power of music. He gives advice on how to create the perfect environment in which to enjoy music and explains how music can be used as a form of therapy or to improve learning.

Levitin rounds out the book with an exploration of how our brains take in and interpret music. He explains the anatomy and physiology of music, as well as the role of the auditory cortex in processing the information we are constantly bombarded with.

At its core, “This Is Your Brain on Music” is an exploration of the science behind our love for music. With a deep dive into the neurological and physiological foundations of music, Levitin unpacks the mysteries around why and how we are so obsessed with music. From this, readers will gain a greater understanding of the power of music and gain a toolbox of resources to use in better engaging with it.