The science of freedom

Everyday Ethics

Freedom - Neuroscientist, author and broadcaster Hannah Critchlow joins presenter Audrey Carville to discuss the science of choice and free will. Do they really exist or are we programmed to conform? What happens in our brains when we make a decision and how much does our environment influence the decisions we make? Do our early years inform what kind of decision maker we are and why are some people decisive and others procrastinate? Also our right to vote is a fundamental aspect of freedom and the foundation of a democratic society. Professor Thomas Gift has led extensive studies analysing US politics and America’s role in the world, he joins Audrey to discuss what factors affect our decision making and whether we vote differently if we fear our freedom might be compromised. And why can some people achieve the seemingly impossible, does mind over matter really ring true? Only 20 people have ever made it to the end of the Barkley marathons in Tennessee. The ultramarathon spans 100 miles and competitors are given 60 hours to reach the finish line. Earlier this year Jasmin Paris became the first woman to complete it. She joins Audrey to discuss risk and reward & just how much the mind takes over when the body wants to quit?