Free WillFree Will
Mental Health Matters
Liz Lange and Dr. Mark Burton discuss free will, neuroplasticity, and epigenetics in relation to human behaviour, questioning how much control we truly have.
31:33•21 Jul 2022
Do We Really Have Free Will? A Deep Dive into Human Behaviour
Episode Overview
- Neuroplasticity shows our brains remain adaptable throughout life.
- Adolescence impacts impulse control due to brain development.
- Epigenetics reveals generational effects of stress and trauma.
- Free will exists despite various influences on behaviour.
- Understanding brain development can help modify maladaptive behaviours.
“"Don't judge someone's behaviour too harshly because you don't know their backstory."”
In this intriguing episode of Mental Health Matters, hosts Liz Lange and Dr. Mark Burton dive into the fascinating topic of free will, guided by the insights of Robert Sapolsky's lecture on human behaviour. Dr. Burton and Liz explore how our brains change over time and how our ancestors might have left more than just genetic footprints on us.
They share their thoughts on the age-old debate about free will, expressing their belief that despite various influences, humans indeed possess the ability to make choices. The duo delves into neuroplasticity, explaining how our brains remain flexible throughout life, albeit less so as we age. They discuss the impact of adolescence on impulse control, highlighting the tug-of-war between the dopamine system and the developing frontal cortex. The conversation takes a deep dive into epigenetics, where Dr.
Burton illustrates how stress experienced by pregnant women can ripple through generations, affecting behaviour and emotional responses in descendants. It's a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of genes, environment, and their intertwined roles in shaping who we are. With humorous anecdotes about language learning and driving mishaps, Liz and Dr. Burton keep the discussion light-hearted yet informative.
They challenge Sapolsky's notion that free will is an illusion, advocating instead for awareness of the factors influencing behaviour while maintaining our ability to choose our paths. Whether you're pondering your own free will or just curious about how your brain works, this episode offers a blend of science and personal reflection that's sure to captivate your interest.
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