Big Brains Do We Really Have Free Will? With Robert Sapolsky
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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.
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Graduation Realization on Determinism
- At his son's college graduation, Robert Sapolsky realized that changing childhoods and genomes would switch who was on stage and who was cleaning garbage.
- This moment highlighted the determinism behind life's outcomes beyond individual control.
Biology Negates Free Will
- Free will means acting free of all previous influences, but biology shapes every action down to neurons, hormones, trauma, and genes.
- Our brains and actions are fully determined by prior causes, leaving no room for traditional free will.
Phineas Gage Brain Injury
- Phineas Gage's iron rod accident destroyed part of his frontal cortex, changing his personality drastically.
- This case showed how brain structure directly influences judgment and restraint, challenging free will.