Hidden Brain Winning the Battle Against Yourself
Sep 8, 2025
Emily Falk, a psychologist and neuroscientist from the University of Pennsylvania, explores the intriguing battle between intention and action. She discusses why our subconscious often sabotages our goals, from diet choices to spending habits. Falk shares humorous anecdotes about temptations we all face. She delves into the brain's decision-making, revealing how short-term rewards clash with long-term benefits. Additionally, she highlights how social influences shape our self-perception and the struggle for personal change.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Value System Prioritizes Now
- Our brains run a value system that computes subjective value and often prioritizes immediate rewards over long-term goals.
- That system reduces complex trade-offs into quick "would you rather" choices favoring vivid, nearby benefits.
Dessert Resolution Defeated
- Emily planned to taste many desserts then eat only her favorite, but later ate a big milkshake she promised to avoid.
- The immediate pleasure and situational cues overrode her prior resolution.
Future Rewards Are Less Vivid
- Long-term goals feel abstract and psychologically distant, so the value system underweights them relative to vivid immediate rewards.
- Vividness and temporal proximity tilt choices toward short-term gratifications.
