Barry R. Komisaruk

Barry R. Komisaruk is a behavioral neuroscientist and professor at Rutgers University known for his pioneering research on the neural basis of sexual response and orgasm. His work has made significant contributions to understanding the relationship between pleasure, pain, and brain activity. Working extensively with both human subjects and animals, Komisaruk has mapped the neural pathways involved in sexual response and demonstrated that orgasm activates over 30 distinct areas of the brain. His research was the first to document that women with complete spinal cord injury could still experience orgasm through the vagus nerve pathway. Notable publications include The Science of Orgasm (2006) and Pathways to Sexual Pleasure (2012), which present his findings to both academic and general audiences. His laboratory work has received continuous federal funding since 1966, supporting research that combines behavioral observation with advanced neuroimaging techniques. Komisaruk's current research focuses on using real-time fMRI feedback to help people learn to control chronic pain through mental imagery and other cognitive techniques. He continues to teach and conduct research at Rutgers University's Department of Psychology and holds multiple patents related to his discoveries in neuroscience.

Most reviews focus on Komisaruk's book "The Science of Orgasm," which readers describe as technical but accessible. Readers appreciate the thorough scientific explanations and clinical approach to a topic often treated sensationally. What Readers Liked: - Clear presentation of complex neurological concepts - Research-based approach with detailed citations - Practical applications for medical professionals - Inclusive coverage of different populations What Readers Disliked: - Dense academic language in some sections - Limited practical advice for general readers - High price point for a relatively short book Ratings Across Platforms: - Goodreads: 3.9/5 (248 ratings) - Amazon: 4.3/5 (127 reviews) - Google Books: 4/5 (52 reviews) One medical student reviewer noted: "Finally, a serious scientific treatment of this subject without sensationalism." A common criticism from general readers was that the book "reads more like a textbook than self-help guide."

The Science of Orgasm (2006) A research-based examination of the physiological and neurological processes of orgasm, covering hormones, brain activity, and nerve pathways involved in sexual response.

The Orgasm Answer Guide (2010) A comprehensive reference addressing common questions about orgasm through scientific evidence, covering topics from basic physiology to medical conditions and age-related changes.

Pathways to Sexual Pleasure (2012) A detailed exploration of the neurological pathways involved in sexual response, incorporating findings from brain imaging studies and clinical research.

David Linden Studies pleasure and reward circuits in the brain as a neuroscientist at Johns Hopkins. His books explore the neuroscience of touch, pleasure, and human behavior through accessible scientific explanations.

Beverly Whipple Co-authored research with Komisaruk on sexual response and the vagus nerve pathway. Her work focuses on female sexuality and the physiological responses during sexual activity.

Norman Doidge Explores neuroplasticity and how the brain changes through experience and mental practice. His research examines how understanding brain circuits can lead to new treatments for chronic conditions.

V.S. Ramachandran Investigates neural mechanisms and conducts research on phantom limbs, synesthesia, and mind-body connections. His work combines clinical observation with experimental neuroscience to understand brain function.

Robert Sapolsky Studies the biology of stress responses and neuroendocrinology at Stanford University. His research examines how hormones and neural circuits influence behavior and biological responses.