Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will

Explain the connection Sapolsky posits between determinism and free will. According to Sapolsky, does determinism prove that free will is a myth? Why or why not?

Sapolsky suggests that, in some ways, free will is detrimental to society. Does free will have a net-positive or net-negative impact on humanity? Use examples from the text or from external sources to support your answer.

What is the purpose of Determined? What does Sapolsky want readers to glean from his text? What impact does he hope it will have on society? Why do you think he felt the need to write Determined?

Examine the relationship Sapolsky posits between free will and the justice system. How might widespread skepticism of free will change the justice system? Would quarantine be an effective method of managing antisocial behaviors? Why or why not? Use examples from the text or from external sources to support your answer.

Take a stance on the disparity between determinism and indeterminism. Using evidence to support your answer, do you feel the world is determined? Why has science yet to reach a consensus on the disparity between determinism and indeterminism?

Sapolsky targets Daniel Dennett and his concept that luck evens out over time. Do you agree with Dennett that luck evens out or with Sapolsky, who argues that luck compounds? Why?

What are the ethical and legal implications of determinism? How might widespread skepticism of free will change the world? Use examples from the text or think of other examples not listed in Determined.

How does Sapolsky use literary devices to enhance his text? Which literary devices appear? How do they impact the tone, credibility, and relatability of the information?