Robert Sapolsky, a Stanford professor and author of "Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will," dives into the provocative idea that free will may be an illusion. He discusses how biology and environment shape our choices, challenging the traditional views of accountability and morality. Sapolsky emphasizes the roles of genetics and upbringing in behavior, prompting a rethink of meritocracy and personal achievement. His insights invite listeners to reconsider concepts of blame, justice, and what it truly means to be human.
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insights INSIGHT
Free Will Redefined
Free will is often mistakenly defined by intent, understanding of outcomes, and awareness of alternatives.
This ignores the crucial question of where the intent itself originates, a critical flaw in typical free will arguments.
insights INSIGHT
Determinism vs. Compatibilism
Determinism suggests that outcomes are predetermined by factors beyond individual control, like childhood and genes.
Compatibilism attempts to reconcile determinism with free will, a position Sapolsky finds illogical.
insights INSIGHT
Rewinding the Tape of Life
If every factor was held constant, including minor random events, life would unfold identically.
Randomness and chaos make this thought experiment practically impossible, but theoretically important.
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In this book, Sapolsky delves into the complex interplay of biological processes, including neuroscience, genetics, and hormones, to explain why humans behave in various ways. He examines behavior on multiple time scales, from the immediate neural responses to actions that occur over centuries and millennia. The book addresses topics such as tribalism, xenophobia, hierarchy, competition, morality, and free will, providing a nuanced and multifaceted understanding of human behavior. Sapolsky's approach integrates cutting-edge research across several disciplines to offer insights into the biological basis of human actions, both good and bad.
Sean Illing speaks with Robert Sapolsky, a professor of biology and neurology at Stanford University and the author of a new book called Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will. They discuss the concept of free will, whether it actually exists in the way we think it does, and what it means for society if free will is indeed an illusion.
Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), host, The Gray Area
Guest: Robert Sapolsky, author, Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will
The Gray Area with Sean Illing 
