Épuisé

Determined

Auteurs

Robert M. Sapolsky

Paramètres

Nonfiction

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One of our leading behavioral scientists, the bestselling author of Behave, explores the science and philosophy of decision-making to challenge the notion of free will, presenting significant implications. In his classic work, Sapolsky examined why humans exhibit both good and bad behavior, leading to the unsettling conclusion that while we may not fully understand the interplay of nature and nurture in shaping behavior, it undeniably exists. In this new exploration, he delivers a compelling critique of the comforting belief that a separate self directs our biology. This work synthesizes our understanding of consciousness, highlighting the intricate connections between reason and emotion, as well as stimulus and response throughout life. Sapolsky systematically dismantles the major arguments supporting free will, navigating through the complexities of chaos theory, quantum physics, and philosophical debates. He illustrates how the evolution of medicine reflects a growing recognition that fewer actions are simply someone's "fault," using historical misconceptions, like seizures being viewed as demonic possession, as examples. Acknowledging the challenge of relinquishing our instinct to judge ourselves and others, Sapolsky applies this new understanding to critical issues of punishment, morality, and coexistence. Ultimately, he contends that recognizing our lack of free will, while difficult, need not lead to chaos or despair;