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The Psychology Podcast

Life Without Free Will || Robert Sapolsky

Oct 16, 2023
01:23:42
Snipd AI
Robert Sapolsky, a professor of biology and neurology, discusses life without free will and its consequences for the justice system and education. Topics include responsibility, punishment, mindfulness, and the illusion of agency. Sapolsky challenges the idea of meritocracy and advocates for a self-actualization focused education system.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Free will is an illusion, as human thoughts and actions are influenced by biological and environmental factors.
  • Understanding the determinants of human behavior should lead to greater compassion and empathy rather than judgment and punishment.

Deep dives

The Illusion of Free Will

In this podcast episode, Robert Sapolsky argues that free will is an illusion. He suggests that human thoughts, feelings, and actions are all influenced by biological and environmental factors over which individuals have no control. Sapolsky emphasizes that agency and choice in decision-making are complex mechanisms influenced by various biological processes. He also highlights the limitations of defining responsibility and justice based on the belief in free will, urging for greater compassion and understanding in our interactions with one another.

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