612: Balance

Balance : in search of the lost sense by Scott McCredie has been a quick, enjoyable read. The book explains the vestibular system, how proprioception works, and the importance of balance in everyday life. The author explores the evolution and origin of balance, and how it provided an evolutionary advantage for primitive man.

Along the way, the author discusses balance in a very wide range of topics, from Van Gogh's ear to circus acrobats and even a possible explanation for the death of John F. Kennedy, Jr. The writing is clear and informative, and the chapters are well organized.

The author has carefully documented his writing with actual studies and discussions with researchers in the field. Where the claims are more speculative, such as the possible links of the vestibular system with cognition and memory, he makes it very clear that it's just a theory, and a disputed one at that.

A fascinating read, and one that will benefit everyone from athletes to the elderly. Highly recommended.