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This is the first book to explore the cognitive science of effortless attention and action. Attention and action are generally understood to require effort, and the expectation is that under normal circumstances effort increases to meet rising demand. Sometimes, however, attention and action seem to flow effortlessly despite high demand. Effortless attention and action have been documented across a range of normal activities-ranging from rock climbing to chess playing-and yet fundamental questions about the cognitive science of effortlessness have gone largely unasked. This book draws from the disciplines of cognitive psychology, neurophysiology, behavioral psychology, genetics, philosophy, and cross-cultural studies. Starting from the premise that the phenomena of effortless attention and action provide an opportunity to test current models of attention and action, leading researchers from around the world examine topics including effort as a cognitive resource, the role of effort in decision-making, the neurophysiology of effortless attention and action, the role of automaticity in effortless action, expert performance in effortless action, and the neurophysiology and benefits of attentional training.

Creating a computer "personality" is as much an art as it is a science, and it's a challenge that more and more software designers are grappling with.

BBC R&D is working on a Visual Perceptive Media project that uses information about the viewer to tailor video content. This week we discuss the effect that technology like this might have on advertising, entertainment, and especially education. Imagine what it would be like for a lesson to play your favorite music, reference your favorite movies, or use your favorite colors? That's the type of school we want to go to.