AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
The Feedback Loop by Singularity
FBL115: Robert Sapolsky - A Determined Future, With No Free Will
Oct 16, 2023
Neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky discusses the illusion of free will, redefining justice, basic income solutions, the purpose of the illusion of free will, and creating a kinder society in this thought-provoking podcast.
57:12
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Our decisions are influenced by biology, environment, and genetics, challenging the concept of free will and the morally bankrupt idea of blame and punishment.
- Cultural evolution, driven by emotional appeals and transformative events, can lead to a society that recognizes the arbitrary nature of privilege and treats all individuals with fairness and compassion, shifting away from praise, blame, and meritocratic systems.
Deep dives
Rethinking Free Will and Responsibility
Neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky argues that free will is an illusion and that the concept of blame and punishment is morally bankrupt. He explains that our decisions are influenced by a complex interplay of biology, environment, and genetics, and that these factors shape us in ways beyond our control. Sapolsky believes that society should shift towards a quarantine model for criminal behavior, focusing on containment and rehabilitation rather than punishment. He acknowledges that societal transformation will be challenging, but draws parallels to previous cultural shifts in areas such as abolition and animal rights. Sapolsky envisions a future where blame and entitlement are replaced with empathy and a recognition that luck plays a significant role in individual outcomes.
Get the Snipd
podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any
moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share
& Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode