Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman cover image

Inner Cosmos with David Eagleman

Ep83 "Why Do Your 30 Trillion Cells Feel Like a Self?" Part 2

Dec 2, 2024
Joining David Eagleman is Michael Levin, a developmental biologist renowned for his work on bioelectricity and regeneration. They explore the emergence of self from the brain's categorization abilities. Levin shares insights from observing metamorphosis in caterpillars and ant colonies, challenging conventional ideas of identity. They delve into the rubber hand illusion, showcasing the brain's adaptability. The discussion reveals how memories are fluid constructs, evolving over time and shaping our understanding of who we are.
01:01:45

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Our perception of a stable self is an illusion created by the brain's ability to categorize and simplify constant cellular changes.
  • Memories are dynamic and reconstructive processes rather than static archives, continuously reshaped by current experiences and contexts.

Deep dives

The Nature of Self and Change

The concept of self is intertwined with constant change at the cellular and molecular levels in our bodies, creating a paradox of identity. Although every few years, our physical being is completely renewed, we maintain an illusion of a singular, unchanged self throughout time. This perception is akin to the ship of Theseus, where every plank is replaced over time, questioning whether the ship remains the same. The brain simplifies this complexity, allowing us to function within a stable identity, even as our physical form continuously evolves.

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