Determined by Robert Sapolsky

Reviewed Date: November 30th, 2023

From ancient times philosophers have been debating about whether we have free will or not. Although the most conservatives believe that God has gifted human beings free will, biologists say otherwise. Regardless of religious beliefs, one should be open to hearing what the scientific community has to say. I must say, it is divided too. There are neuroscientists who say yes, we have free will.

Robert Sapolsky, the author of the book, asks one hard question: show me that one neuron that puts forth an act without any influences that occurred or accumulated before. To make it simpler to understand, we take a different route. Our behavior, judgements, and decisions are influenced by so many factors. To take a few, hormones, childhood experiences, genes, and culture.

As studies have pointed out, our generosity and honesty are determined by hormones that are circulating in our bloodstream the day before. The truth is that we are not aware of our influences. And we still act as if we are completely aware of what we are doing. Although it is an uncomfortable thought that our biology determines our behavior, it is also liberating in a way that we don’t have to beat ourselves up for our behavior traits.

Determined by Robert Sapolsky is an eye-opening and thought-provoking book. Responsibility and morality won’t be dying because of lack of free will. But we will be more responsible for our behavior. I know that it’s a complex book to review. But I highly recommend this book.