21 Best Books on Cognitive Science

We have compiled a list of the Best Reference Books on Cognitive Science, which are used by students of top universities, and colleges. This will help you choose the right book depending on if you are a beginner or an expert. Here is the complete list of Cognitive Science Books with their authors, publishers, and an unbiased review of them as well as links to the Amazon website to directly purchase them. If permissible, you can also download the free PDF books on Cognitive Science below.

1. Introduction to Cognitive Science

 
1."Cognitive Science: An Introduction to the Science of the Mind" by José Luis Bermúdez
“Cognitive Science: An Introduction to the Science of the Mind” Book Review: This comprehensive book offers a complete introduction to the field of cognitive science, catering to engineering, medical, and other students seeking change or inspiration. M.Tech, research, and PhD students can also benefit from this text. It seamlessly blends the interdisciplinary branches of cognitive science into a cohesive narrative, providing a holistic overview of the field. Rather than focusing on specific disciplines, this thematically organized book emphasizes the challenges and solutions of cognitive science. It teaches students to apply the extensive range of methods and tools that cognitive scientists employ to study the mind, and demonstrates how theory is applied to comprehend human cognition. The book has been updated with the latest research, including a new chapter on consciousness.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
2."Basic Vision: An Introduction to Visual Perception" by Robert Snowden and Peter Thompson
“Basic Vision: An Introduction to Visual Perception” Book Review: This book is intended for students of engineering, medicine, and any individual seeking motivation or change. M.Tech students can also find this book useful. Moreover, research students and PhD students can benefit from this book as well. The book delves into the mechanisms that underlie our perception of the world. It provides insight into the various components that contribute to our perception of the surrounding environment, including size, color, motion, and three-dimensional space. The book highlights the complexity of the visual system, including its development during infancy and the potential for the brain to misinterpret visual information. The text also emphasizes the significance of modern techniques and methodologies, with a particular focus on neuroscience-based approaches, in advancing our understanding of the visual system.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
3."MATLAB for Neuroscientists: An Introduction to Scientific Computing in MATLAB" by Pascal Wallisch and Michael E Lusignan
“MATLAB for Neuroscientists: An Introduction to Scientific Computing in MATLAB” Book Review: The book is intended for engineering, medical, and other students who wish to learn MATLAB. M.Tech students can also benefit from it, and it is also suitable for research and PhD students. The book delves into how we perceive the world, and it is the most comprehensive resource available for learning MATLAB, the standard scientific computing tool used in neurosciences and psychology. This unique guide is ideal for mastering the entire empirical and experimental process. The book includes additional information on creating visual stimuli, advanced psychophysics, analyzing LFP data, choice probabilities, synchrony, and advanced spectral analysis. It takes a problem-based approach and utilizes real data examples from neuroscience and cognitive psychology.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
4."Introduction to Psycholinguistics: Understanding Language Science" by Matthew J Traxler
“Introduction to Psycholinguistics: Understanding Language Science” Book Review: This book is suitable for engineering and medical students, as well as those seeking inspiration or motivation. Additionally, M.Tech students can use this book, as well as research and PhD students. The book delves into the processes of perceiving the world, and it provides an innovative introduction to psycholinguistics. The cognitive processes that underlie language acquisition and usage are explored in this book, which offers a step-by-step guide through language acquisition, production, and comprehension, from words to sentences and conversations. It also contains a full suite of resources for both instructors and students, such as review exercises, a test bank, and lecture slides. This book contains an extensive overview of research in bilingual language processing, sign language, reading, and the neurological basis of language production and comprehension.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
5."An Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: Skills and Applications" by Joan Kirk and Helen Kennerley
“An Introduction to Cognitive Behaviour Therapy: Skills and Applications” Book Review: The book is designed for engineering, medical students, and anyone seeking motivation or change. M.Tech students, research students, and PhD students can also benefit from it. The book sheds light on how we perceive the world and comprehensively covers the theory, skills, and practical applications of cognitive behavior therapy. The latest advancements in CBT theory have been incorporated into the book. Additionally, the book provides detailed insights on working with diversity, new case studies, and exercises. The book also explains the effectiveness of CBT measures, its application to specific client disorders, and how to use supervision in CBT. The book concludes by explaining Socratic methods and their applications.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
6."Mindware: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Cognitive Science" by Andy Clark
“Mindware: An Introduction to the Philosophy of Cognitive Science” Book Review: This book is ideal for engineering and medical students, as well as any students seeking change or motivation. Additionally, M.Tech students can benefit from this book, along with research and PhD students. The book offers an explanation of how we perceive the world, beginning each chapter with a brief overview of a major research perspective. It then provides concise critical discussions of key topics and problems, along with extensive revisions, additions, and updates to reflect new developments in the field. The book also aims to engage students in active debate by highlighting challenging issues. It covers topics such as mindware as software and debates between realists, instrumentalists, and eliminativists.

advertisement
advertisement
Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
7."Cognition, Brain, and Consciousness: Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience" by Bernard J Baars and Nicole M Gage
“Cognition, Brain, and Consciousness: Introduction to Cognitive Neuroscience” Book Review: The intended audience for this book includes engineering and medical students, as well as any other students seeking motivation or wishing to learn about cognitive neuroscience. M.Tech students may also find this book useful, along with research and PhD students. The book provides an explanation of the processes involved in perceiving the world, including the role of brain molecules in transmitting signals throughout the body. It further explores the significance of these molecules in various cognitive functions such as language, perception, and thinking. Finally, the book presents brain imaging and recording tools that can be used to view the human brain.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
8."Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Modelling: A Student's Introduction to Methods and Procedures" by Britt Anderson
“Computational Neuroscience and Cognitive Modelling: A Student’s Introduction to Methods and Procedures” Book Review: This book is suitable for a range of students, including engineering and medical students, as well as anyone who wants to learn about neuroscience. It is also relevant for M.Tech students, research students, and PhD students. The book delves into the processes by which we perceive the world and offers an accessible introduction to computational modeling in neuroscience, even for those with limited backgrounds in computing or mathematics. The book is structured thematically and covers a range of topics, from modeling integrate and firing neurons to playing the game Rock, Paper, Scissors in ACT-R. Despite its non-technical nature, the book showcases how basic knowledge and modern computers can be used to create intriguing simulations, progressing from simple spreadsheet exercises to Python programs.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
9."From Molecules to Networks: An Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience" by John H Byrne and Ruth Heidelberger Dr
“From Molecules to Networks: An Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience” Book Review: The book is intended for students studying engineering, medicine, or any subject interested in understanding molecules and networks. It is also a valuable resource for M.Tech students and can be utilized by research students and PhD candidates. The book delves into the mechanisms through which we perceive the world and establishes a strong groundwork for the morphological, biochemical, and biophysical characteristics of nerve cells. The third edition retains the book’s distinct concentration on cellular and molecular neurobiology and computational neuroscience while improving it. The chapters have been extensively updated to incorporate the substantial progress made over the previous five years.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
10."Mind – Introduction to Cognitive Science" by Paul Thagard
“Mind – Introduction to Cognitive Science” Book Review: This book caters to a diverse audience, including engineering, medical, M.Tech, research, and PhD students who seek motivation or change. It delves into the various processes that shape our perception of the world. The book addresses the significant challenges to the computational-representational view of mind, covering topics such as emotions, consciousness, physical and social environments, dynamical systems, and mathematical knowledge. Each chapter of the book concludes with a summary, discussion questions, and suggestions for further reading. It serves as an excellent introductory course on cognitive science, utilizing numerous examples, illustrations, and practical applications to showcase how theory can be used to unravel the mysteries of the human mind.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
11."Enhancing Performance and Reducing Stress in Sports: Technological Advances (Cognitive Systems Monographs)" by Helen Greenberg and Ronald Greenberg
“Enhancing Performance and Reducing Stress in Sports: Technological Advances (Cognitive Systems Monographs)” Book Review: This book is suitable for athletes and those striving for peak sports performance. Its objective is to expedite the acquisition of motor skills and to meticulously decrease recovery time after training and competition. It presents contemporary techniques for current sport and health practices, notably neuromuscular electrical stimulation, oxygen infusion, and lactic acid elimination (Turbo Sports). The publication incorporates DSP as a crucial component of every athlete’s future training, competition, and health maintenance. It encompasses the idea of swift and efficient recovery from training and competition, as well as preventing sports injuries.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
12."From Robot to Human Grasping Simulation (Cognitive Systems Monographs)" by Beatriz León and Antonio Morales
Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)


2. Neurobiology and Cognitive Sciences

 
1."Neurobiology" by Mathews G G
“Neurobiology” Book Review: The second edition of this book provides comprehensive coverage of a wide range of topics, from molecules to systems. Each major concept is illustrated using various systems, making the information easy to understand and apply. This edition also features a new chapter on hypothalamic function, with a particular emphasis on circadian rhythms. The book has been updated with more clinical relevance and improved illustration quality and quantity. Overall, the book offers detailed and thorough explanations of the subject matter, with a focus on systems to aid understanding of key concepts.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
2."Neurobiology" by Gordon M Shepherd
“Neurobiology” Book Review: The book delves into a comprehensive range of neuroscience research and offers contemporary perspectives on the nervous system. A novel inclusion in the book is an introductory explanation of gene regulation’s functionality. The book elucidates the involvement of molecules in synaptic transmission and impulse conduction in an easily comprehensible manner. Furthermore, the concept of neural systems is presented through a comparative approach. The concept of plasticity is also thoroughly explored. Additionally, the book provides insights into recent memory research. The twin themes of organizational levels and comparative systems are covered in the book.

advertisement
Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
3."Medical Neurobiology" by Peggy Mason
“Medical Neurobiology” Book Review: This book is suitable for both novice and advanced neurobiology students, and it exclusively focuses on the human nervous system. Its main objective is to provide fundamental knowledge about the nervous system that is relevant to medicine and human health. The text is written in easy-to-understand language, and it sheds light on the role of the nervous system in common medical disorders. Chapters are organized in a way that allows for continuous reading, and essential concepts are presented in a clear and comprehensive manner. The book’s ultimate goal is to emphasize the significance of the nervous system in all medical specialties, making it valuable for any healthcare professional.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
4."The Neurobiology of Cognition and Behavior" by John Hart Jr
“The Neurobiology of Cognition and Behavior” Book Review: This book serves as an introductory textbook on brain mapping within the field of cognitive neuroscience. It is a valuable resource for students studying cognitive sciences and neuroanatomy, as well as for experienced neuroscientist researchers and clinicians. The book offers a comprehensive map of the human brain and its role in cognition and behavior, drawing on fMRI and PET scans of the normally functioning brain. The mapping approach is based on principles of cognitive neuroscience and injury studies, providing an all-encompassing view of essential human thinking and emotion. In addition, the book provides a detailed explanation of the fundamental components of cognition construction within the brain.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
5."The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory" by Jerry W Rudy
“The Neurobiology of Learning and Memory” Book Review: The Second Edition of this book offers a combination of psychological theories and behavioral techniques that can be easily understood by those with minimal knowledge in the field. The book features numerous full-color photos and figures, which illustrate crucial concepts and experimental data. Divided into three parts, each section has been expanded to include fresh chapters, discoveries, and ideas. Part one examines synapses while the remaining chapters are structured around the four overlapping stages of synaptic changes. Additionally, the book delves into behavioral and neurobiological approaches, providing detailed accounts of the memory processes involved. Part three adopts a multiple memory systems approach, exploring the brain regions that support various types of memories. The book concludes with an analysis of neural systems that facilitate the acquisition and erasure of emotional memories.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
6."Cognitive Psychology: Mind and Brain" by Smith/Kosslyn
“Cognitive Psychology: Mind and Brain” Book Review: This is an engaging and comprehensive textbook for undergraduate and graduate students. It covers various topics, including perception, attention, memory, language, problem-solving, and decision-making. The book provides an in-depth analysis of cognitive neuroscience and explains the brain mechanisms behind cognitive processes. The authors use illustrative examples and diagrams to help students understand complex concepts. This book also incorporates the latest research and techniques used in cognitive psychology, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in this field.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
7."The Cognitive Science of Science – Explanation, Discovery, and Conceptual Change" by Thagard
“The Cognitive Science of Science: Explanation, Discovery, and Conceptual Change” Book Review: The book takes a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to the study of scientific development within the field of cognitive science. Through various cognitive perspectives, the book delves into topics such as the nature of explanation, mental models, theory choice, and resistance to scientific change. The author presents a series of studies that highlight both psychological and neural processes involved in scientific development. Furthermore, the book demonstrates how cognitive science can merge descriptive and normative concerns surrounding scientific concepts, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and researchers alike.

advertisement
Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
8."Cognitive Science: An Introduction to the Study of Mind" by Jay Friedenberg
“Cognitive Science: An Introduction to the Study of Mind” Book Review: The third edition of this book offers a multifaceted and detailed introduction to cognitive science. It aims to aid readers in comprehending the workings of the mind and providing answers to pertinent questions. The book covers a range of topics, with each chapter concentrating on a particular area within cognitive science. It delves into research methodologies, theoretical perspectives, and discoveries. The book also provides critical assessments and insights. It is thoroughly revised with up-to-date research.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
 
9."The Cambridge Handbook of Cognitive Science" by Keith Frankish and William Ramsey
“The Cambridge Handbook of Cognitive Science” Book Review: This book is a useful resource not only for cognitive scientists and philosophers, but also for individuals across various disciplines. It is a collection of original essays, surveys, theoretical and philosophical discussions that encompass the entire field of cognitive science. The book serves as a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental principles of cognitive science and highlights the major areas of research and the significant research programs in the field. While the book does cover some technical aspects, it primarily focuses on broader philosophical concepts. Overall, this book is an essential read for anyone interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of cognitive science.

Buy-this-Book (India) Buy-this-book (US)
We have put a lot of effort into researching the best books on Cognitive Science and came out with a recommended list and their reviews. If any more book needs to be added to this list, please email us. We are working on free pdf downloads for books on Cognitive Science and will publish the download link here. Fill out this Cognitive Science books pdf download" request form for download notification.

advertisement
advertisement
Subscribe to our Newsletters (Subject-wise). Participate in the Sanfoundry Certification contest to get free Certificate of Merit. Join our social networks below and stay updated with latest contests, videos, internships and jobs!

Youtube | Telegram | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
Manish Bhojasia - Founder & CTO at Sanfoundry
Manish Bhojasia, a technology veteran with 20+ years @ Cisco & Wipro, is Founder and CTO at Sanfoundry. He lives in Bangalore, and focuses on development of Linux Kernel, SAN Technologies, Advanced C, Data Structures & Alogrithms. Stay connected with him at LinkedIn.

Subscribe to his free Masterclasses at Youtube & discussions at Telegram SanfoundryClasses.