Big Brains
Do We Really Have Free Will? With Robert Sapolsky
Dec 14, 2023
Renowned professor Robert Sapolsky discusses the illusion of free will, highlighting how biology and environment shape our actions. He challenges societal beliefs and explores the implications on ethics and justice. The podcast delves into the moral dilemma of living without free will, prompting reflection on responsibility and accountability.
34:37
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Quick takeaways
- Our actions are determined by biological mechanisms, challenging the notion of free will.
- External factors like upbringing and culture heavily influence decision-making and behavior, beyond individual control.
Deep dives
Exploring the Illusion of Free Will
The podcast delves into the concept of free will, challenging the traditional belief that individuals have complete autonomy in decision-making. Renowned neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky argues that our actions are fundamentally determined by biological mechanisms, shaping our behavior from neurobiology to evolutionary influences. Sapolsky contends that the idea of free will is an illusion, emphasizing that our intents and choices are a result of preceding factors, leading to a deterministic view of human behavior.
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