Ep117 "What does brain science have to do with free speech? (with Greg Lukianoff)" (with Greg Lukianoff)

In this episode of Inner Cosmos, David Eagleman, a neuroscientist, interviews Greg Lukianoff, a constitutional lawyer and free speech advocate, about the importance of free speech from a neuroscience perspective. Eagleman argues that free speech is essential for expanding our internal models of the world and challenging our assumptions, while Lukianoff discusses the legal and societal benefits of free speech, including its role in protecting the powerless and preventing violence. They explore the shift in attitudes towards free speech on college campuses, the impact of social media and AI, and the importance of epistemic humility in intellectual development. The conversation highlights the necessity of cognitive discomfort and exposure to diverse viewpoints for building psychological resilience and fostering a more robust and innovative society.