Jenann Ismael

Jenann Ismael, a physicist and philosopher, explains her groundbreaking perspective that free will is a tangible reality rooted in thermodynamics and relativity. She discusses the unpredictability that even the most advanced systems face, allowing for genuine agency. The conversation touches on the interplay of identity and memory, the enigmatic relationship between determinism and choice, and the existential challenges we all face. From personal loss to the essence of self, Ismael makes complex concepts accessible and relatable.

Jenann Ismael, a Professor of Philosophy at Columbia University, dives into the fascinating intersection of physics and human experience. She explores the nature of free will amidst the framework of determinism, asking whether we possess true agency. Ismael discusses the impact of consciousness on decision-making and identity, touching on ethical dilemmas like animal rights. Furthermore, she examines how our understanding of cognition can reshape notions of morality, blending insights from neuroscience and the philosophy of mind.