Is there a theory that explains the essence of consciousness? Or is consciousness itself just an illusion? The 'last great mystery of science', consciousness is a topic that was banned from serious research fro most of the last century, but is now a rapidly expanding area of study for students of psychology, philosophy and neuroscience, as well as capturing growing popular interest. This ground-breaking textbook by best-selling aughto susan Blackmore is the first of its kind to bring together all the major theories of consciousness studies, from those based on neuroscience to those based on quantum theory or Eastern philosophy, in a format specifically designed to support structured learning. The book examines topics such as how subjective experiences arise from objective brain processes, the basic neuroscience and neuropathology of consciousness, altered states of consciousness, mystical experiences and the effects of drugs, dreams and meditation. Also discussed are the nature of self, the possibility of artificial consciousness in robots, and the question of whether animals are conscious. All topics are supported not only by self-assessment questions and extensive further reading suggestions at the end of each chapter, but by practical exercises that help bring the subject to life, and could radically transform each reader's understanidng of his own consciousness.