1 of 27

Write now Article Tools

This philosophical debate concerning Free Will vs. Determinism has been a very attractive study for philosophers, and anyone who wishes to lend their voice. In fact, this debate is so intensely attractive that it has been going on for centuries, and the argument continues today.

The better understand this ongoing debate and some related terminologies that will appear herein, a few words will be defined:

Determinism is basically defined as the view that all current and future events are dictated by past events combined with the laws of nature. In other words, determinism is the doctrine or belief that everything - including every human act - is caused by something and that there is no valid free will, including hard determinism.

Indeterminism is the theory that some actions are undermined; it's the philosophical theory that argues that human beings have free will, and their actions are not always and completely determined by previous events.

Compatibilism is the belief that the presence of free will and determinism are compatible with each other; they can be in existence together. Compatibilists believe that one can be completely free and responsible for his/her actions, although every one of those actions have already been predetermined by events occurring well before his/her birth, and therefore out of one's control.

Incompatibilism is the view that free will and determinism are logically incompatible - and therefore impossible. This belief can carry two opposing views: (1) This could mean believing in determinism, and rejecting the idea of free will (hard determinism); and (2) it could also mean believing in free will and rejecting the theory of determinism (libertarianism).

Libertarianism is the doctrine of free will, rejecting the doctrine of determinism. In brief, this doctrine argues that one has complete freedom of his/her actions and thoughts.

This issue of Free Will vs. Determinism is very intriguing and thought-provoking. Philosophers and others have conjured up so many views which raise rebuttals, contradictions, confusions and many questions. The two questions that are most important in this debate are as follows: (1) Does free will exist or is it just a figment of our imagination? (2) Is determinism true or maybe possible? Some believe free will exists and others don't. I will argue that free will does exist.

Because there are so many views and studies from dozens of philosophers, a few notables will be mentioned (i.e., Thomas Hobbes, David Hume,

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Free will vs. determinism?
We want to hear your view. Write now!