Philosophy of Hard Determinism

What does Hard Determinism (HD) assert regarding the nature of human actions?

Which argument asserts that feeling free implies the existence of free will?

According to the Argument from Moral Responsibility, what conclusion is drawn if we are morally responsible for our actions?

Which of the following describes a standard volition in the context of the definitions provided?

What is one characteristic of Typical Soft Determinism (TSD)?

What does the Argument from Drive Resistance aim to demonstrate regarding Hard Determinism?

Which premise is common to all arguments presented against Hard Determinism?

What is required to evaluate the arguments against Hard Determinism effectively?

Which statement correctly describes moral responsibility based on the premises of the arguments?

Hard Determinism

Every event has a cause, implying that nobody acts freely.
Hard Determinism accepts the Principle of Universal Causation and denies Free Will Thesis.

Arguments Against Hard Determinism

Argument from the Feeling of Freedom: Sometimes we feel we are acting freely, suggesting the possibility of free will.
Argument from Choice: Sometimes we choose to do certain things, indicating freedom of action.
Argument from Drive Resistance: We can resist our desires and passions, hinting at a degree of control over our actions.
Argument from Moral Responsibility: We are sometimes held morally responsible for our actions, suggesting a capacity for free choice.

Moral Responsibility & Causal Responsibility

Moral responsibility refers to being accountable for one's actions, often accompanied by praise or blame.
Causal responsibility refers to the chain of events leading to an outcome, emphasizing cause and effect.
Distinguish between these two concepts to understand moral responsibility within the framework of free will.

Typical Soft Determinism

Accepts the Principle of Universal Causation: All events have a cause.
Posits some voluntary actions: Allows for some form of free will within a deterministic framework.
Asserts moral responsibility for voluntary actions: Maintains that individuals are responsible for their choices and their consequences.

A.J. Ayer's Critique of Typical Soft Determinism

Typical Soft Determinism struggles to fully capture the essence of free will.
The definition of voluntary action, as influenced by beliefs and desires, may not adequately represent the concept of free will perceived by individuals.

Explore the concepts of Hard Determinism and its arguments against free will. This quiz delves into moral and causal responsibility, inviting you to consider the implications of a deterministic view of human actions and decisions. Test your understanding of the nuances in this philosophical debate.