On The Varieties Of Attention Digital Original Edition

During the past three decades, neurology researcher James Austin (author of Zen and the Brain) has been at the cutting edge of both Zen and neuroscience, constantly discovering new examples of how these two large fields each illuminate the other. In this BIT, Austin discusses how meditation trains our attention, reprogramming it toward subtle forms of awareness that are more openly mindful. He reveals many subtleties in our networks of attention. They enable us to direct attention voluntarily—from the top down—or reflexively—from the bottom up—and to focus it either internally or externally.

Digital systems, such as phones, computers and PDAs, place continuous demands on our cognitive and perceptual systems. They offer information and interaction opportunities well above our processing abilities, and often interrupt our activity. Appropriate allocation of attention is one of the key factors determining the success of creative activities, learning, collaboration, and many other human pursuits. This book presents research related to human attention in digital environments. Original contributions by leading researchers cover the conceptual framework of research aimed at modelling and supporting human attentional processes, the theoretical and software tools currently available, and various application areas. The authors explore the idea that attention has a key role to play in the design of future technology and discuss how such technology may continue supporting human activity in environments where multiple devices compete for people's limited cognitive resources.

In the context of debates surrounding the effects of new technologies on our mental faculties, particularly the attention span, this volume addresses the notion of a deterioration of attention, and the related ideas of cognitive overload, an inability to concentrate, and attention deficit disorder. Through a new conceptualization of attention based not on individualistic or universalistic approaches, but centered instead on the cultural and social variability of cognitive processes and the multiplicity of forces and environments that encourage, stimulate, and inhibit certain cognitive mechanisms, the author rejects the idea of a degradation or crisis of attention and proposes an alternative vision of the problem of attention in contemporary societies. Placing cultural conventions, social norms, and ecological environments at the forefront of our understanding of individual and collective attention, Attention and its Crisis in Digital Society will appeal to scholars of sociology, psychology, and philosophy with interests in social theory, cognitive processes, and the criticisms often levelled at digital society and new technologies.

Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by notifications, drained by constant screen time, and yearning for a deeper sense of focus and connection? In our hyper-connected world, technology has become both a blessing and a curse. While it offers endless opportunities for communication, information, and entertainment, it also bombards us with distractions, erodes our attention spans, and threatens our mental well-being. Digital Wellbeing in a Distracted World is your guide to navigating this complex landscape and reclaiming control of your digital life. This comprehensive book, filled with practical strategies and inspiring insights, will help you: Understand the challenges of constant connectivity: Explore the impact of technology on your attention, creativity, and relationships. Discover the power of deep work: Learn how to cultivate focused attention and unlock your peak productivity. Practice mindfulness in a digital age: Integrate mindfulness techniques into your daily life to manage distractions and find inner peace. Develop healthy digital habits: Implement strategies for setting boundaries, minimizing distractions, and using technology responsibly. Create a balanced life: Learn how to integrate technology with other aspects of your life, prioritizing meaningful connections and offline activities. Through engaging stories, expert advice, and actionable exercises, this book empowers you to: Reclaim your attention: Break free from the constant pull of notifications and distractions. Boost your productivity: Learn to focus deeply and achieve your goals with greater efficiency. Improve your mental well-being: Reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of overwhelm associated with digital overload. Strengthen your relationships: Cultivate deeper, more meaningful connections with loved ones. Live a more fulfilling life: Discover the joy and richness of experiences beyond the screen. Digital Wellbeing in a Distracted World is your roadmap to a happier, healthier, and more focused life in the digital age. Embark on this journey today and reclaim your attention, your time, and your well-being. Bonus: Includes a personalized "digital detox plan" to help you implement the strategies in your own life. Features inspiring quotes and wisdom from leading experts in technology, mindfulness, and productivity. Provides practical exercises and tools to help you track your progress and stay motivated. This book is for you if you: Feel overwhelmed by notifications and constant screen time. Struggle to focus on work or studies due to digital distractions. Experience anxiety or stress related to technology use. Want to improve your mental health and well-being. Seek a more balanced and fulfilling life in the digital age. Don't let technology control your life. Take control and reclaim your digital wellbeing today!

As ever, the onus is on brands to find compelling ways to earn the attention of the consumer. Yet content scarcity has given way to overload, fixed channels have dissolved into fluid networks, and audiences have become participants in consumer-driven conversations. This shift requires a new course of action for brands; it demands new marketing imperatives. Paid Attention is a guide to modern advertising ideas: what they are, why they are evolving and how to have them. Spanning communication theory, neuroscience, creativity and innovation, media history, branding and emerging technologies, it explores the strategic creation process and how to package ideas to attract the most attention in the advertising industry. Packed with real-world examples of advertising campaigns for companies including Sony, Red Bull, HP and many more, Paid Attention provides a robust model for influencing human behaviour. Referencing a wide body of theory and praxis, from behavioural economics and sociology to technology and even science fiction, Faris Yakob maps advertising onto a wider analysis of culture. Containing practical advertising and branding templates, including a new advertising planning toolkit, it is ideal for students and practitioners looking to get noticed in today's cluttered marketplace. Online resources include additional toolkits with advice, techniques and best practice on brand behaviour, new ideas and effective communication.

European identity is as much a problem as an opportunity. Although it is impossible to provide an all-encompassing definition of what it means to be European, historicising and contextualising this problem may well lead to the clarification and even creation of a European identity. This is the contention of this volume, which approaches this complex notion from an inter- and transdisciplinary perspective, examining facets ranging from the citizen to cultural politics, from literature to traditional and digital media, from the US to China. As complex as this idea is, this volume will extend the reader’s understanding of the timely and promising problematisation of what may be termed “European identity.”