New developments in neuroscience and technological innovations are putting increasing pressure on the fundamental legal notions of moral autonomy, self-determination, liberty, and conscience, questioning their premises and the protection that they hardly won over centuries of philosophical and religious ruminations. Inquiries in neuronal activity challenge the notion of an impenetrable forum internum and conscience; they suggest that the human mind is a flow of thoughts, feelings, and emotions that can be detected, influenced, and even controlled by external and internal factors. These new developments pose fundamental questions about moral deliberation and particular liberties, including religious freedom, and the very existence of religion itself.
This trans-disciplinary meeting will bring together neuroscientists, philosophers, theologians, lawyers, and engineers to consider moral deliberation, neurorights, and what it means to be free to think and believe in the digital age.
March 5th, 2026 Lecture:
Arthur Brooks on “Metacognition & Meaning”
Discussion: Iain McGilchrist and Nita Farahany
March 6-7, 2026:
Cognitive Liberty: Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Featuring scholars at the forefront of neurorights and keynote lecture by Iain McGilchrist
Hosted by Duke University in partnership with the Provost’s Initiative for Pluralism, Free Inquiry, and Belonging
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