Robert Sapolsky: Philosophy Needs Science 4/6 [Vert Dider] 2020

The Paradox of Free Will

What is science, and how does it work? These are questions that have occupied the minds of some of the greatest thinkers in history. The very nature of science itself is a reflection of human curiosity and our relentless pursuit of understanding the world around us. But let's take a step back and delve into one of the most captivating paradoxes of human existence - the illusion of free will.

We act as if we possess free will, as if our choices are the products of our conscious agency. But what if, in the grand tapestry of evolution, free will is nothing more than a fascinating accident, a spandrel? This illusion, though seemingly arbitrary, plays a vital role in our lives. It's the force that propels us out of bed in the morning, fosters our sense of belonging to something greater than ourselves, and carries us through challenging times. However, it can also be a double-edged sword.

If you find yourself falling short of society's arbitrary standards of success in life, it can become a heavy burden to bear. We're told that we should have control over our destiny, that we can be anything we want, even the President. But the reality often falls short, and it leaves many feeling like they've failed for reasons beyond their control.

The myth of free will is deeply ingrained in our society, perpetuating a sense of guilt for not achieving the unattainable. This dichotomy is what makes the concept of free will so fascinating, as it simultaneously empowers and restricts us.

The Myth's Double-Edged Sword

The myths we create for ourselves, whether about free will, divine benevolence, or any other, serve to alleviate our anxieties. They offer a sense of purpose and control, but they also create the anxiety they aim to alleviate. The myth of free will, in particular, is a testament to the human capacity for self-deception.

The Challenge of Motivation

Speaking of motivation, the idea of free will serves as a powerful driving force for many. It's what gets us out of bed and allows us to revel in our accomplishments. But what happens when we confront the possibility that free will is nothing more than a mirage?

The challenge is real, and the answers are not so straightforward. To stay motivated when free will is debunked, we must externalize some of our sources of pleasure and satisfaction. Instead of reveling in our own greatness, we find joy in making others happy, in being of service to the world. We learn to find fulfillment in actions that transcend our individual desires.

In a world where the illusion of free will is shattered, we need to rely on the very things that this illusion once obscured. It's a conundrum, but it's also an opportunity for growth and enlightenment.

The Liberation of Acceptance

The historical examples of how science has revolutionized our understanding of human behavior and mental disorders highlight the power of letting go of deeply entrenched beliefs. In the mid-20th century, schizophrenia was often blamed on "schizophrenogenic mothering." This theory suggested that a mother's incompetence and unconscious hatred for her child could lead to schizophrenia.

Imagine the anguish of parents who believed they were responsible for their child's suffering. The liberation came when biochemists discovered antipsychotic drugs that targeted brain chemistry, dispelling the notion of maternal causation. For many parents, it was a profound relief to know that their actions were not to blame.

A similar narrative unfolded in the realm of autism. It was once believed that a lack of maternal love, labeled as "refrigerator mothering," was the root cause. However, research led to the understanding that genetics and prenatal factors played a significant role.

In both cases, the liberation was in accepting that these conditions were not the fault of parents. These revelations were liberating and allowed parents to move beyond self-blame.

Embracing the Marvel of Life

So, what happens when we abandon the illusion of free will? For many, it brings about a sense of depression and existential despair. Yet, for others, it is the most wondrous and liberating realization. It can be a journey of self-discovery, a path toward finding motivation and meaning beyond the confines of personal agency.

Life is a complex dance of factors beyond our control, and realizing this can be a stepping stone to greater wisdom and empathy. It opens the door to understanding the intricate web of causality that shapes our world.

In the end, it is the human capacity to evolve, learn, and adapt that defines our species. It's a testament to our resilience and our ability to embrace the marvel of life, even when the illusion of free will fades away.