Eminent neuroscientist Robert Sapolsky challenges the established ideas about free will: he argues that our behavior is predetermined by biological and social factors. Based on modern scientific data, including neurobiology, genetics, quantum mechanics, the author convincingly proves that our actions are strongly influenced by genetic predisposition, upbringing, and even random events in life. As a result, we are practically deprived of real choice.

Sapolsky describes in detail experiments proving that the human brain makes decisions before we realize them, and thus calls into question the moral and legal foundations of the idea of ​​​​free will. Does this mean that we must abandon the condemnation and punishment of a criminal who is actually supposedly innocent?

The book is addressed to readers interested in the eternal questions of justice, morality and human nature.