Free Will and Determinism Concepts

What does the principle PUC assert?

Which conclusion is derived from the incompatibility argument regarding PUC and FWT?

If one accepts the principle of FWT, what must also be accepted according to the argument presented?

In the context of the arguments presented, what is the implication if someone claims that not everything is determined?

What does the abbreviation FWT stand for in this context?

Free Will and Determinism

The text explores the relationship between free will and determinism, examining whether these two concepts are compatible.
Principle of Universal Causation (PUC): Every event has a cause.
Free Will Thesis (FWT): Sometimes people act freely.
Incompatibility: Two principles are incompatible if a valid argument exists from one principle and necessary truths to the denial of the other.
Argument for Incompatibility (1):
- If every event has a cause (PUC), then every action is determined by previous conditions.
- If actions are determined by previous conditions, then no one acts freely.
- Therefore, no one ever acts freely (denial of FWT).
Argument for Incompatibility (2):
- If sometimes people act freely (FWT), then not all actions are determined by previous conditions.
- If not all actions are determined by previous conditions, then some events are not caused.
- Therefore, some events are not caused (denial of PUC).
The arguments presented show a logical incompatibility between the Principle of Universal Causation and the Free Will Thesis.

This quiz delves into the complex relationship between free will and determinism, exploring key arguments and principles such as the Principle of Universal Causation and the Free Will Thesis. It examines the compatibility of these concepts and discusses various arguments for their incompatibility. Test your understanding of these philosophical ideas and their implications.