Questions and Answers
What philosophical concept argues that humans create themselves through their choices?
Which philosopher is associated with the belief that free will exists in the absence of external constraints?
What is the primary assertion of the compatibilist view?
Which of the following best describes the determinist perspective?
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Who among the following philosophers is likely to argue that free will is an evolved human creation?
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Which position claims that free will cannot exist if determinism is true?
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What is the key argument of indeterminism?
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Which thinker believes that free will is an illusion?
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What does STACE argue about human freedom?
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According to SCHLICK, how can freedom be enhanced?
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DENNETT asserts that free will is:
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What are the two ways of viewing the universe according to JAMES?
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Why does W. JAMES believe that free will is vital?
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What does the premise of free will being a human creation suggest?
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In the context of STACE's argument, what is the relationship between external constraints and freedom?
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What conclusion does DENNETT reach regarding the study of free will?
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What does indeterminism suggest about historical scenarios?
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Which aspect is NOT a reason supporting determinism according to common explanations?
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What philosophical stance reconciles determinism and indeterminism?
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What does hard determinism claim about free will?
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Which philosopher is associated with the early arguments for compatibilism?
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What is implied by psychological forces in the context of determinism?
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What conclusion do some philosophers draw regarding accountability in determinism?
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What are 'internal constraints' according to deterministic theory?
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What does Sartre mean by 'Existence precedes Essence'?
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What are the feelings associated with Sartre's notion of radical freedom?
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What critical stance does determinism take according to the content?
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Which of the following best describes the impact of indeterminist theories according to the content?
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What does the content suggest is a consequence of Sartre's concept of personal freedom?
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Study Notes
Free Will Overview
- Exploration of the concept of free will and its implications on ethics and personal responsibility.
- Three main philosophical schools: Determinism, Compatibilism, and Indeterminism (Libertarianism).
Determinism
- Actions are predetermined by causal rules; only one historical scenario exists.
- Influencing factors include human nature, environment, psychological forces, and social dynamics.
- D’Holbach's Argument:
- External constraints removed, internal constraints remain, indicating no free will.
Compatibilism
- Proposed by philosophers like David Hume, suggesting free choice exists within a deterministic framework.
- Reconciling hard determinism and libertarianism.
- W.T. Stace's Premises:
- Humanity experiences freedom chiefly in the absence of external constraints.
- Majority of human actions occur without external constraints imposed.
Degrees of Freedom
- Schlick posits that freedom can be increased by overcoming both internal and external constraints.
Free Will as Human Creation
- Dennett argues that free will results from evolution.
- Free will, akin to cultural constructs like music and money, does not exist naturally but evolves through human experiences.
- Essential to human existence, but derived from collective beliefs and activities.
Views of the Universe
- William James differentiates between a universe of actualities and one of possibilities:
- Suggests that human choice leads to an unpredictable universe.
- Advocates for seeking meaning in life through free will, countering cosmic pessimism associated with determinism.
Ethical Implications
- Indeterminist theories are seen as more reflective of human experience.
- Critique of determinism highlights its dogmatic nature and lack of falsifiability.
Existentialism and Responsibility
- Sartre’s philosophy emphasizes "existence precedes essence," reversing traditional views that prioritize essence.
- Freedom comes with responsibility, leading to feelings like anguish and despair.
- Individuals are defined by their actions, highlighting personal agency in constructing life narratives.
Summary
- Understanding the distinctions between determinism and indeterminism.
- Ethical consequences each philosophy poses on personal accountability and freedom.
- Influence of existential thought on modern perceptions of personal freedom and responsibility.
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Description
Explore the multifaceted concept of free will, with a focus on its ethical implications and personal responsibility. Delve into the primary philosophical schools: Determinism, Compatibilism, and Indeterminism, and understand the arguments presented by notable philosophers in the field.
