Distant galaxies, dark matter, black holes - elusive, incomprehensible and inhospitable - these are the building blocks of modern physics. But where do we fit in this picture?


For centuries, we have separated mind from matter. While physicists have pursued a theory of everything with single-minded purpose, the matter of the mind, of human consciousness, has been conveniently sidestepped and ignored - consigned to priests, philosophers and poets.


With the ambition of Stephen Hawking, Carlo Rovelli and Brian Cox, Putting Ourselves Back in the Equation sets out a bold new vision for theoretical physics, unrestricted by sleek equations and neat formulations. Combining cutting-edge neuroscience with the latest in quantum mechanics, acclaimed writer Musser offers a new interpretation of human consciousness. From bizarre cognitive phenomena, like lucid dreaming and self-taught synaesthesia, to the latest technological developments in AI, Musser asks- what can physics teach us about what it means to be human?