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The Decision Education Podcast
Episode 031: Unlocking the Brain with Dr. David Eagleman
Nov 26, 2024
Dr. David Eagleman, a renowned neuroscientist and author best known for his work on time perception, joins the discussion to explore how our brains shape decision-making. They dive into the fascinating concept of mental time travel and its influence on how we envision the future. Eagleman discusses sensory hacks, the power of Ulysses contracts for resisting temptation, and the importance of supportive relationships in navigating our choices. The conversation highlights how memory and social dynamics intertwine, guiding our decisions in profound ways.
47:02
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Quick takeaways
- Simulating future scenarios can help mitigate temporal discounting by enabling individuals to visualize outcomes and make informed decisions.
- Ulysses contracts are effective strategies for pre-committing to actions that align with long-term goals, reinforcing accountability against temptations.
Deep dives
The Brain as a Decision-Making Machine
The brain operates as a complex machine that processes multiple competing desires, akin to a neural parliament with different factions vying for influence. Decision-making is influenced by various factors, such as social contexts, environmental temptations, and personal histories, resulting in different outcomes even for the same individual at different times. This dynamic reflects how our brains do not function like computers, as identical neural setups can lead to divergent decisions based on momentary circumstances. Understanding this model is crucial for recognizing why humans face challenges in maintaining consistent choices aligned with long-term goals.
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