Uri Maoz, a professor at Chapman University, found his passion for neuroscience during his PhD studies, focusing on the intricate relationship between the brain and human movement. His academic journey took an unexpected turn when tasked with delivering an undergraduate lecture. Rather than sticking to the expected curriculum, he delved into a topic that had fascinated him for years: the neuroscience of free will. This inquiry into whether individuals genuinely make choices or merely perceive themselves as doing so has shaped his research trajectory and sparked significant academic discourse.
Maoz’s work centers on understanding the neural mechanisms that underlie decision-making processes. His research challenges traditional interpretations of foundational studies in neuroscience, particularly those that suggest our conscious decisions are preceded by unconscious brain activity. One pivotal experiment by Benjamin Libet revealed that an electrical signal in the brain, known as the readiness potential, appears before a person consciously decides to act. This has led to the unsettling conclusion that individuals may not be as in control of their actions as they believe, likening human consciousness to a passenger in a self-driving car.
To advance this exploration, Maoz is collaborating with philosophers to dissect the nuanced concepts of intention, desire, and urge—elements that neuroscientists often conflate. By focusing on meaningful decisions that shape lives, rather than arbitrary actions, he aims to uncover deeper insights into human agency. His efforts include organizing conferences that unite philosophers and scientists to tackle the complex question of free will, as well as considering the implications of artificial intelligence in this debate. As Maoz continues his research, he remains at the forefront of re-evaluating how we understand autonomy, control, and the very essence of human decision-making.
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