Alexander Panchin: Free Will: The Illusion of the Self

Is Your Choice Truly Your Own?

Have you ever wondered if the decisions you make are genuinely yours, or if they are simply the result of complex neural processes firing in your brain? Join us for an engaging lecture by Alexander Panchin as we dive into the age-old debate surrounding free will.

We often feel like the conscious authors of our lives—we weigh options, deliberate, and make choices. However, modern neuroscience is beginning to challenge these deeply held intuitions. This event bridges the gap between philosophy and experimental science to examine whether our sense of agency is a reality or a sophisticated illusion.

What to Expect

During this session, we will explore several thought-provoking questions:

• The Mechanics of Decision-Making: Does consciousness drive our actions, or does it merely observe them after the fact?
• The Illusion of Self: Where do automatic brain functions end and the "self" begin? Can this sense of self fragment?
• External Influences: Why do some people feel as though their actions are guided by external forces or a "foreign will"?
• Morality and Responsibility: In a world governed by scientific cause and effect, what happens to our concepts of personal choice and moral accountability?

Whether you are a science enthusiast or simply curious about the nature of human existence, this lecture offers a fascinating look at one of the most profound mysteries of the human mind. We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of discovery and lively discussion.