The Self Help Antidote

In this thought-provoking episode of "The Self Help Antidote," we delve into the contentious and complex debate over human free will. We explore the philosophical underpinnings of free will, as traditionally espoused by thinkers like Descartes, contrasted with the revelations of modern neuroscience.

Special guest, Clinical Neuropsychologist Roy Sugarman, author of “Saving Your Life, One Day at a Time” and “Client Centered Training”, offers his insights into how our brains are wired, discussing the ongoing battle between our limbic system and what he terms the 'janitorial' parts of our brain. This intricate dance between the fast, often inaccurate instincts and our slower, more deliberate thought processes illuminates the nuances of our decision-making processes.

The episode then turns to the fascinating interplay of emotions and thinking, examining how some people appear to exert greater free will, while others seem more constrained. We use the example of Oskar Schindler to illustrate how individuals navigate complex moral and ethical landscapes.

Further, we investigate the influence of hormones and stress on our propensity to believe in conspiracy theories, and how our ancestry and prenatal hormone exposure might shape our behavior. We probe into why we're so vested in others' actions and the pervasive market for misinformation, highlighting the human tendency to hold beliefs without understanding their origins.

This leads to a discussion on cognitive biases and psychological inflexibility, underscoring the importance of education in fostering psychological flexibility and self-reflection. In a more introspective segment, we explore the value of doing the difficult yet right things, the art of self-forgiveness, and the significance of auditing our values. We examine intriguing cases such as kindness induced by an anterior pituitary tumor and the role of testosterone in altruism.

Finally, we tackle the big questions: Is truth subjective? How can we reconcile cognitive biases? We explore theories like motivational interviewing, reactance theory, relational frame theory, and self-determination, concluding with the organizing principle of the brain's search for autonomy and efficacy, and how this relates to our values and identity. This episode is a deep dive into the irony of free will, offering listeners a multifaceted perspective on one of humanity's most enduring questions. Join us as we unravel the complex tapestry of free will, neuroscience, and the human psyche.

Dr. Roy Sugarman is a cofounder of Transhuman Inc, a mental health prevention and intervention AI technology company operating in 87 countries holding international patents on the capture of human emotion. He is a founder and Head Neuroscientist for education technology company BoxPlay in the UK bridging intelligence and emotions via communication expertise. He is a sought-after keynote speaker both locally and internationally.

Thank you,
Enjoy

Visit us at:

www.theselfhelpantidote.com