Lezing | Waarom handelen mensen tegen beter weten in? | Reinout Wiers

Item: Lezing | Waarom handelen mensen tegen beter weten in? | Reinout Wiers
Rating: 4
Author: PostSingularity Institute

by Reinout Wiers

Humanities, Social Sciences & Thought Psychology JMPsychology JMPAbnormal psychology

🎙 Reinout Wiers 👥 6K 📅 October 23, 2025 ⏱ 57 min 👁 399 📄 expert opinion 🧭 2026-08-16

Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

acrasiaaddictionfree willdual-process modelsbias choice

Summary

In this lecture, Reinout Wiers addresses the ancient philosophical problem of acrasia, or acting against one’s better judgment. He uses the example of a former smoker who, despite knowing the risks, accepts a cigarette. Wiers traces the concept from Plato and Aristotle to modern psychology and neuroscience, discussing dual-process models that distinguish between impulsive and reflective systems. He critiques these models, noting recent evidence that they are oversimplified. He then explores the neuroscience of addiction, particularly the influential ‘chronic brain disease’ model proposed by Alan Leshner and Nora Volkow. Wiers argues that this model is problematic, citing epidemiological data showing that most people recover without treatment, and research indicating that stigma increases with the disease label. He presents an alternative ‘bias choice’ model, which emphasizes that addiction compromises choice rather than eliminating it. He discusses the role of motivation, social factors, and predictive brain mechanisms. The lecture concludes with a call for a more nuanced understanding of addiction that integrates biological, psychological, and social perspectives.

165 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The lecture provides valuable insights into the philosophical and scientific debates surrounding addiction and free will. Wiers presents a well-structured argument, drawing on his extensive research and citing key studies. He effectively critiques the dominant biomedical model, offering a more balanced perspective that acknowledges the role of choice and motivation. The argumentation is solid, though some points are simplified for a general audience.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

Wiers demonstrates scientific rigor by referencing established theories and empirical research, including work by Harry Frankfurt, Daniel Kahneman, and Nora Volkow. He also cites meta-analyses and epidemiological studies. The title accurately reflects the content, and the lecture is well-organized. The sources are credible, though the talk is not a formal academic review.

130 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content, which explores why people act against their better judgment, focusing on addiction and free will.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The lecture is delivered by a leading expert in addiction research, with references to established theories and empirical studies. However, it is a popular science talk, not a peer-reviewed publication, and some claims are simplified.

Key Moments

Markers derived by PSI from the transcript: the creator did not define chapters.

Cited Sources

Thinking, Fast and Slow — Mentioned as a popular book by Daniel Kahneman on dual-process theory.
Nora Volkow — Cited for her definition of addiction as a chronic brain disease.
Carl Hart — Mentioned for his research on addiction and choice.

Concurring Sources

Theories of addiction — Supports the discussion of various models of addiction.

Dissenting Sources

Chronic brain disease model — The lecture critiques this model, which is still widely accepted in some circles.

Contribution & Novelties

The lecture offers a comprehensive overview of the philosophical and scientific perspectives on acrasia and addiction, synthesizing insights from philosophy, psychology, and neuroscience. Wiers presents a compelling critique of the chronic brain disease model, advocating for a more nuanced ‘bias choice’ perspective. This approach integrates biological, psychological, and social factors, providing a more holistic understanding of addiction.

Pour aller plus loin :

Acrasia — The philosophical concept of weakness of will.
Dual process theory — The framework of fast and slow thinking.
Addiction — Overview of addiction and its models.

90 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in information quantity, quality, and reliability, with a slightly lower technical level, indicating a well-balanced and accessible lecture.

Reliability 8/10