The brain and free will

The professor presented us with a very interesting perspective on the most complex and mysterious machine in the universe, as well as some of its secrets and challenges. We found out that free will is far less optimistic than we thought, but on the other hand, with a bit of effort, not all is lost. :-)

What was covered in the lecture?

• Are we truly free in our decisions and actions, or is it just an illusion?
• What does “free will” look like in light of neurological findings?
• Is our brain more of an ally or a saboteur?
• What should we watch out for the next time we face an important decision?

Who is Vladimír Komárek?

Vladimír Komárek is the head of the Department of Pediatric Neurology at the 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and Motol University Hospital. He lectures at the 2nd Faculty of Medicine, DAMU, and FHS. He contributed, for example, to the establishment of the Children’s Brain Foundation and the Epilepsy Center. He was elected dean of the 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University for two terms (2014–2022).