Determined by Robert M. Sapolsky

Product Details

About the Book

Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will is an instant New York Times bestseller by renowned neuroscientist and primatologist Robert M. Sapolsky, mounting a bold and thoroughly researched case against one of the most deeply held assumptions of human life: that we possess free will. Building on the arguments explored in his earlier classic, Behave, Sapolsky takes his conclusions further here, arguing that the sense of a separate, autonomous self directing our choices is itself an illusion shaped entirely by biology, environment, and chance.

Drawing on decades of research across neuroscience, genetics, chaos theory, and evolutionary biology, Sapolsky methodically works through and dismantles the major arguments typically made in favor of free will, addressing complex fields such as quantum physics and emergent complexity along the way, while keeping the material genuinely accessible even for readers without a scientific background. He explores how factors entirely outside our control, our genes, our upbringing, prior experiences, and even hormonal and neurological states in any given moment, shape virtually every decision we make, however deliberate those decisions may feel. Rather than treating this as a bleak or nihilistic conclusion, Sapolsky argues that fully accepting the science of determinism could lead to a more humane, compassionate society, one that moves away from ideas of blame, retribution, and moral judgment and toward greater empathy and more effective, evidence-based approaches to human behavior, including within criminal justice and beyond. Written with Sapolsky's signature wit and clarity, the book has sparked significant debate and discussion since its release, drawing both strong praise for its accessibility and rigor, and pushback from philosophers and scientists who find his conclusions too absolute.

Why Read Determined?

• A bold, comprehensive case against free will: Systematically works through major philosophical and scientific arguments on the subject.
• Grounded in decades of scientific research: Draws on Sapolsky's extensive background in neuroscience, genetics, and behavioral biology.
• Genuinely accessible despite complex subject matter: Covers difficult topics like chaos theory and quantum physics in an engaging, witty style.
• Explores real-world implications: Applies the science of determinism to questions of morality, punishment, and criminal justice.
• An instant New York Times bestseller: Widely discussed and reviewed, sparking significant debate across science and philosophy communities.

About the Author: Robert M. Sapolsky

Robert M. Sapolsky is a professor of biology and neurology at Stanford University, as well as a research associate at the National Museums of Kenya, and the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation "genius grant." He is the author of several acclaimed works of nonfiction, including Behave, A Primate's Memoir, The Trouble with Testosterone, and Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers, both of which became New York Times bestsellers. Known for his research in neuroendocrinology and his ability to translate complex neuroscience into accessible, engaging writing, Sapolsky is widely regarded as one of the leading behavioral scientists of his generation.

Who Should Read This Book

• Readers interested in neuroscience, psychology, and the philosophy of free will
• Fans of Robert Sapolsky's previous bestseller, Behave
• Anyone interested in criminal justice reform and questions of moral responsibility
• Readers who enjoy rigorously argued, thought-provoking popular science
• Philosophy readers looking to engage with a scientific perspective on determinism

Why Buy From Us?

• ✅ 100% original, high-quality print
• ✅ Fast delivery across Bangladesh
• ✅ Cash on delivery available
• ✅ Secure packaging, guaranteed quality
• ✅ Easy return and exchange policy

Order now and explore Robert Sapolsky's provocative, deeply researched case against free will.