How To Academy Podcast Daniel Dennett v. Robert Sapolsky - Do We Have Free Will?
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Jan 24, 2024 
Philosopher Daniel Dennett and neurobiologist Robert Sapolsky debate whether human beings have free will. Sapolsky argues that free will is an illusion, while Dennett believes it is compatible with scientific knowledge. They discuss factors influencing decision-making, the role of biology and environment in shaping behavior, the link between free will and genetic attributes, responsibility, and the concept of being 'wired wrong' or 'wired right'.
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Free Will: A Dangerous Illusion
- Robert Sapolsky believes free will is a dangerous illusion, irrelevant to intent and choice.
- He argues that assessing behavior based on intent without considering its origins is like judging a movie by its last three minutes.
Movie Theater Analogy
- Sapolsky uses the example of two people reacting differently to the same movie to illustrate how past experiences shape intent.
- One feels inspired to donate, while the other is outraged, highlighting the influence of prior events on decision-making.
Free Will: An Evolved Skill
- Daniel Dennett believes in both determinism and free will, arguing that free will is a socially evolved system minimizing inherent inequalities.
- He views free will as a skill developed through evolution, enhancing self-control and minimizing those inequalities.