Erik Hoel
The World Behind the World
Erik Hoel’s second book is entitled The World Behind the World. The book is a fascinating exploration into how the brain creates our conscious experiences—potentially revolutionizing neuroscience and the future of technology. It lays out the evidence that nothing in the brain makes sense except in the light of a theory of consciousness. Some topics he examines include what the similarities are between our brains and black holes; where consciousness fits into physics and morality; and why it may be impossible for AI to ever become conscious, despite popular belief. The World Behind the World argues that establishing a proven theory of consciousness would trigger a paradigm shift in the field of neuroscience and the future of technology, transforming the very fabric of our society.
The World Behind the World shows us at long last, science is coming to understand the fundamental mystery of human existence.
“Neuroscientist and fiction writer Hoel draws on history, philosophy, mathematics, and neuroscience to examine ways that consciousness has been imagined and investigated.” —Kirkus Reviews
The Revelations
The Revelations, not unlike its main character, is ambitious and abrasive, challenging and disarming. Bursting with ideas ranging from Greek mythology, the dark realities of animal testing, and to some of the biggest unanswered questions facing scientists today, The Revelations is written in muscular, hypnotic prose, and its cyclically dreamlike structure pushes the boundaries of literary fiction. Erik Hoel has crafted a stunning debut novel of rare power—an intense look at cutting-edge science, consciousness, and human connection—and has cemented himself as a powerful new voice in contemporary fiction.
“I have been writing and reading daily for decades, and I have never read anything like Erik Hoel’s remarkable debut novel. The Revelations is a deeply compelling, thought-provoking, and frankly, unforgettable work, one that heralds the arrival of an important new voice among us.” —Andre Dubus III, bestselling author of House of Sand and Fog
"Neuroscientist Hoel’s dizzying, impressive debut unloads a series of nefarious plots. . . Fast and furious, this mind-stretching novel makes the grade." —Publishers Weekly
About the Author
Erik Hoel is an assistant professor at Tufts University, is a Forbes 30 Under 30 in Science for his neuroscience research on consciousness, and a Center for Fiction NYC Emerging Writers Fellow. His very first job was working for his mother's independent bookstore, the Jabberwocky, which is one of the biggest independent bookstores in New England. Visit his website at www.erikphoel.com to learn more.