Is it possible to learn something without being aware of it? How does emotion influence the way we think? How can we improve our memory?

Fundamentals of Cognition, Fourth Edition, provides a basic, reader-friendly introduction to the key cognitive processes we use to interact successfully with the world around us. Our abilities in attention, perception, learning, memory, language, problem solving, thinking, and reasoning are all vitally important in enabling us to cope with everyday life. Understanding these processes through the study of cognitive psychology is essential for understanding human behaviour.

This edition has been thoroughly updated and revised with an emphasis on making it even more accessible to introductory-level students. This new edition includes:

• updated references for readers who are looking for more detailed information;
• checks to make sure that statements made in the previous version are still valid, given recent findings on replication issues;
• extended research activities and "In the Real World" case studies to make it easy for students to engage with the material;
• real-world topics such as discussions of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, the reading problems of individuals with dyslexia, why magic tricks work, and why we cannot remember the Apple logo accurately;
• an extensive set of "Key term" definitions;
• supporting Instructor and Student Resources containing multiple choice questions, flashcards, simulations of key experiments, and instructor resources.

The book provides a perfect balance between traditional approaches to cognition and cutting-edge cognitive neuroscience and cognitive neuropsychology. Covering all the key topics within cognition, this comprehensive overview is essential reading for all students interested in psychology.