Three Key Points

In Top Brain, Bottom Brain, you will learn about the Theory of Cognitive Modes, which specifies general ways of thinking that underlie how a person approaches the world and interacts with other people. We explain the science behind the theory in detail -- but to start, there are only three key points that you will really need to keep in mind.

First, the top parts and the bottom parts of the brain have different functions. The top brain formulates and executes plans (which often involve deciding where to move objects or how to move the body in space), whereas the bottom brain classifies and interprets incoming information about the world. The two halves always work together; most important, the top brain uses information from the bottom brain to formulate its plans (and to reformulate them, as they unfold over time).
 
The second key point: According to the theory, people vary in the degree that they tend to rely on each of the two brain systems (the top system, and the bottom) for functions that are optional (i.e., not dictated by the immediate situation): Some people tend to rely heavily on both brain systems, some rely heavily on the bottom brain system but not the top, some rely heavily on the top but not the bottom, and some don’t rely heavily on either system. That means that the ways individuals think and behave can be categorized, which can be useful knowledge in understanding oneself and others.

The third key point is that how people tend to rely heavily (or not) on the top and bottom parts of their brain define four basic cognitive modes — general ways of thinking that underlie how a person approaches the world and interacts with other people. According to the Theory of Cognitive Modes, every one of us has a particular dominant cognitive mode, which affects how we respond to situations we encounter and how we relate to others. We have named these the Mover, Perceiver, Stimulator and Adaptor Modes. You will be able to identify your own dominant mode (and those of other people in your life) with the simple test in the book (and soon online, please check back for when the app, which will also work on mobile devices, goes live). And check our Facebook page and our web site for more on the book.