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Kevin J. Mitchell

Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin, expert in the impact of genetics on conscious thought and metacognition.

Top 5 podcasts with Kevin J. Mitchell

Ranked by the Snipd community
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12 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 1h 56min

Chatting about the Brain with a professor of Neuroscience

Dr. Kevin Mitchell, an Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin and author of "Innate", dives into the fascinating intersection of brain function and creativity. He discusses neuroplasticity and how our experiences shape identity in the digital age. The conversation also touches on language acquisition, contrasting human learning with AI, and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and sleep for creativity. Additionally, Mitchell sheds light on neurodiversity, reflecting on autism and unique cognitive conditions, highlighting the beauty of diverse perceptions.
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10 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 53min

Do you have free will? - Part 2

In this engaging discussion, Kevin Mitchell, an Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin, dives into the fascinating realm of metacognition—how we think about our thinking. He contrasts human decision-making with that of other species, exploring how our evolved brain structure influences belief evaluation and planning. The conversation delves into the complexities surrounding free will versus determinism, revealing the intertwined nature of genetics, consciousness, and our understanding of moral responsibility.
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Feb 3, 2025 • 34min

Do you have free will? - Part 1

In this thought-provoking discussion, Kevin Mitchell, an Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin, delves into the origins of free will. He explores the evolution of behavior from single-celled organisms to complex humans. The interplay between neurodevelopment and moral responsibility is highlighted, alongside the idea of living beings as information processors. Kevin also discusses how evolutionary pressures shape decision-making, revealing how instinct evolves into learned behavior over time. It's a fascinating journey into the nature of cognition!
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Oct 1, 2023 • 32min

Kevin J. Mitchell, "Free Agents: How Evolution Gave Us Free Will" (Princeton UP, 2023)

Leading neuroscientist Kevin J. Mitchell discusses how evolution gave us free will and challenges the idea that agency is an illusion. He explores the emergence of nervous systems, the power of meaning in neural activity, and the role of genetics in shaping our individual nature. Mitchell's argument has important implications for decision making, individual and collective agency, and the future of artificial intelligence.
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Oct 1, 2023 • 32min

Kevin J. Mitchell, "Free Agents: How Evolution Gave Us Free Will" (Princeton UP, 2023)

In this enlightening discussion, neuroscientist Kevin J. Mitchell, known for his work on brain development at Trinity College Dublin, explores the complexities of free will and agency. He argues against the notion that our decisions are mere illusions, showcasing how evolution shaped our ability to choose. Delving into the evolution of consciousness, he outlines the journey from single-celled organisms to human beings capable of introspection. Mitchell also tackles the implications of free will in decision-making, ethics, and the future of artificial intelligence.