Gabor Maté, M.D. provides a clear explanation of addiction and its crucial relationship to brain development in early childhood and associated environmental conditions. Through a synthesis of clinical experience, cutting edge brain research, and spiritual teachings, Dr. Maté describes why we seek such destructive ways to comfort ourselves and why is it so difficult to stop. He explains the four basic brain systems involved with healthy development, as well as addiction, and why they are so powerful. Dr. Maté proposes a compassionate approach to healing and suggests that we need to widen our lens to look at the conditions in the world that feed, drive and promote addiction versus health and balance.