In 'Free Will', Sam Harris challenges the traditional notion of free will, arguing that our thoughts and actions are deeply influenced by factors beyond our control. He presents compelling evidence from neuroscience and philosophy, suggesting that the sense of agency we feel is an illusion. By unraveling the intricacies of human behavior and decision-making, Harris provokes readers to reconsider their beliefs about morality and accountability. This provocative exploration raises essential questions about how we view ourselves and one another in a deterministic world. Readers will find themselves questioning the very foundation of their choices and the implications for society at large.
By Sam Harris
Published: 2012
"Our beliefs, thoughts, and intentions arise from a background of brain activity that we are not conscious of, making free will an illusion that we construct in the narrative of our lives."
From the New York Times bestselling author of The End of Faith, a thought-provoking, "brilliant and witty" (Oliver Sacks) look at the notion of free will—and the implications that it is an illusion. A belief in free will touches nearly everything that human beings value. It is difficult to think about law, politics, religion, public policy, intimate relationships, morality—as well as feelings of remorse or personal achievement—without first imagining that every person is the true source of his or her thoughts and actions. And yet the facts tell us that free will is an illusion. In this enlightening book, Sam Harris argues that this truth about the human mind does not undermine morality or diminish the importance of social and political freedom, but it can and should change the way we think about some of the most important questions in life.
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“Our beliefs, thoughts, and intentions arise from a background of brain activity that we are not conscious of, making free will an illusion that we construct in the narrative of our lives.”
Free Will
By Sam Harris
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Sam Harris is a bestselling author, neuroscientist, and public intellectual known for his keen insights on philosophy, science, and religion. He is the author of several notable works, including 'The End of Faith,' which critiques religious dogma, 'Letter to a Christian Nation,' and 'Waking Up: A Guide to Spirituality Without Religion.' Harris's writing is characterized by its clarity and rationality, often blending rigorous scientific understanding with profound philosophical inquiry. He is also a co-founder of the influential 'Waking Up' app, where he explores mindfulness and meditation.
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