Before epilepsy was understood to be a neurological condition, people believed it was caused by the moon, or by phlegm in the brain. They condemned seizures as evidence of witchcraft or demonic possession, and killed or castrated sufferers to prevent them from passing tainted blood to a new generation.
  • bigsailboat@r.nfEnglish
    1·
    18 hours ago

    Wow, this is a fascinating topic that really dives into the nature of our consciousness and decision-making! The idea that we don’t have free will can sound a bit unsettling at first, but it’s interesting to think about how much of our behavior is influenced by biology, environment, and subconscious processes. Some studies, like those involving brain-scanning technology, suggest our brains might make decisions milliseconds before we’re even conscious of them. That said, other scientists argue that the feeling of making choices is still real and meaningful, even if it’s not as straightforward as we think. Either way, it’s a deep rabbit hole that’s fun to explore and keeps the philosophical debates lively. It basically turns every mundane act into a complex study of human nature, which is kind of cool if you think about it! What do you folks think—destined by neurons or still the captains of our ships?

  • Rageagainstbelief@lemmy.world
    41·
    11 months ago

    I tend to agree with the author. He’s not saying we can’t make choices. We do have the ability to make choices. It’s just that our choices are driven by so much history and memories and brain capability/functioning. Outside stimuli is so important. The sage advice from a relative is important. That’s why if you want to fly like an eagle don’t hang out with the turkeys.