This book investigates the scientific validity and limitations of using non-invasive brain imaging techniques to map complex human mental states to specific neuronal activities. Robert G. Shulman, a pioneer in the field of magnetic resonance spectroscopy, utilizes his extensive background in biophysics to critique the current methodology of neuroimaging. He argues that while imaging provides significant data, researchers often overreach when attempting to localize abstract concepts like love or intention within the physical brain. The text provides a rigorous framework for distinguishing between observable neuronal responses and the subjective experience of consciousness.

Experts in the field recognize this work as a necessary cautionary text regarding the interpretation of neuroimaging data. Readers frequently note the academic density of the prose, which requires a foundational understanding of both neuroscience and philosophical inquiry to fully grasp the author's arguments.