Making Sense with Sam Harris
#360 — We Really Don’t Have Free Will?
Mar 27, 2024
Robert Sapolsky, a renowned professor of biology and author, joins the discussion on the contentious notion of free will. They dive deep into the scientific and philosophical underpinnings of our beliefs about agency. Topics include the influence of epigenetics on behavior, the emergence of complex emotions from basic interactions, and the ethical implications of determinism in criminal justice. The conversation challenges listeners to reconsider assumptions about personal responsibility and the neurological basis of morality.
39:06
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Quick takeaways
- Reconsider conventional notions of free will through an exploration of ethical and legal implications.
- Challenge mystical attributions to mental faculties by emphasizing the deterministic nature of neural processes.
Deep dives
Reflections on Danny Kahneman's Legacy
Reflecting on the recent passing of Danny Kahneman, the podcast delves into the impact of his work and persona as a prominent figure in psychology and behavioral economics. Despite limited personal interaction, his influence remains palpable, marking a loss for his close associates and the wider intellectual community. The discussion highlights the significance of seizing time wisely, echoing the ethos of making the most of life's brevity and the lessons held within Kahneman's legacy.
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