The Puzzle Instinct: The Meaning of Puzzles in Human Life

Humans are the only animals who create and solve puzzles--for the sheer pleasure of it--and there is no obvious genetic reason why we would do this. Marcel Danesi explores the psychology of puzzles and puzzling, with scores of classic examples. His pioneering book is both entertaining and enlightening. --Will Shortz, Crossword Editor, The New York Times

. . . Puzzle fanatics will enjoy the many riddles, illusions, cryptograms and other mind-benders offered for analysis. --Psychology Today

. . . a bristlingly clear . . . always intriguing survey of the history and rationale of puzzles. . . . [A] splendid study. . . . --Knight Ridder Newspapers

Author: Marcel Danesi
Publisher: Indiana University Press
Published: 02/20/2004
Pages: 269
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.88lbs
Size: 8.90h x 5.90w x 0.60d
ISBN: 9780253217080

About the Author

Marcel Danesi is Professor of Semiotics and Anthropology at the University of Toronto and Director of the Program in Semiotics and Communication Theory. His books include Increase Your Puzzle IQ and Of Cigarettes, High Heels, and Other Interesting Things: An Introduction to Semiotics. He lives in Toronto.