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Robinson's Podcast
193 - Robert Sapolsky: Determinism, Free Will, & The End of Moral Responsibility
Feb 7, 2024
Robert Sapolsky, a Professor at Stanford University and leading mind in the free will debate, discusses intriguing topics in this conversation. He explores how personal experiences and biology shape our beliefs, challenging the illusion of free will. Sapolsky argues that societal constructs, especially the justice system, should adapt if we accept determinism. The conversation dives into the effects of maternal stress on behavior, the role of emotions in moral decisions, and the implications of neuroscience on moral responsibility.
01:53:33
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast argues that free will is likely an illusion, rooted in physical determinism and continuous cause and effect, similar to stacked turtles.
- Human behavior is significantly shaped by biological and environmental factors, prompting a reassessment of traditional notions of free agency and moral responsibility.
Deep dives
The Nature of Free Will and Determinism
The argument presented posits that free will may be an illusion and presents determinism as a leading explanation for human behavior. The idea is illustrated through an anecdote about William James and turtles, suggesting that our actions are the culmination of previous events and conditions, akin to layers of turtles stacked upon each other. It challenges the notion of free will by asserting that intentions and decisions stem from a continuous line of cause and effect. Ultimately, the perspective suggests that to claim free will exists is comparable to suggesting a floating turtle, which lacks grounding in real-world human psychology.
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