Neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky discusses baboon behavior, brain evolution, free will illusion, justice, and religion with Sam Harris. They explore the impact of stress on the brain, frontal cortex function, and the intertwining of reason and emotion in decision-making.
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Quick takeaways
The frontal cortex's delayed maturation until age of 25 allows significant shaping by experience affecting decision-making and moral behavior.
Research on baboons demonstrates how social stress negatively impacts brain functions, providing valuable insights for understanding human brain health.
Deep dives
Robert Sapolsky's Expertise in Neuroendocrinology and Primatology
Robert Sapolsky, a renowned professor and scientist, is known for his expertise in neuroendocrinology and primatology. As a professor at Stanford University, he combines his knowledge in biology and neurology to provide insightful perspectives. With his new book, 'Behave: The Biology of Humans at Our Best and Worst,' Sapolsky offers a comprehensive discussion on brain science, making complex concepts accessible to a broader audience.
Stress Effects on Brain Health Studied Through Baboons
Sapolsky's research focuses on the impact of stress on health, particularly on the brain. His study involving baboons in East Africa over 32 summers illustrates how stress can negatively affect brain functions. By studying these wild primates, known for generating social stress, Sapolsky gains valuable insights that complement his lab research and provide a well-rounded understanding of brain health.
Frontal Cortex Maturity and Decision-Making
The frontal cortex, crucial for impulse control and long-term planning, is the last brain region to fully develop. Its delayed maturation until around the age of 25 allows for significant shaping by experience rather than genes. Sapolsky's discussion underscores how this delay in development influences decision-making, ethical norms, and moral behavior, emphasizing the impact of culture and early experiences on shaping individual beliefs.
Impact of Understanding Free Will on Behavior
The notion of free will, extensively debated by Sapolsky and Harris, challenges conventional beliefs in personal agency. While both scholars reject the existence of free will, they confront a practical dilemma in applying this deterministic worldview to daily interactions. Despite their scientific stance, they acknowledge the challenge of balancing deterministic perspectives with the inherent human tendency to assume agency in decision-making processes.
Sam Harris speaks with Robert Sapolsky about his work with baboons, the opposition between reason and emotion, doubt, the evolution of the brain, the civilizing role of the frontal cortex, the illusion of free will, justice and vengeance, brain-machine interface, religion, drugs, and other topics.
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