Abstract

This chapter aims to identify the effects of the global turn on European research into the human brain and mind. On the basis of specific examples, it is concluded that the global turn has noticeably influenced European psychological and neuroscientific research. First, European research into human cognition has been strongly influenced by American science since the early twentieth century. These influences are still felt, and there is considerable exchange of ideas between North America and Europe. Second, research in cross-cultural psychology has shown that the cultural context may affect even fundamental mechanisms of perception and cognition. Lastly, European research has arguably gained from investigating non-European practices such as meditation in order to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of how the human brain and the mind work. Overall, these influences are currently evident in Europe, both within everyday psychology and cognitive neuroscience.