Determinism
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The Implications of Determinism
The problem of determinism arises in all the major areas of philosophy. The first part of this book, first published in 1991, is a critical and historical exposition of the problem and the most important ideas and arguments which have arisen over the many years of debate. The second part considers the various forms of determinism and the implications that they engender.
Causes, Laws, and Free Will
Author: Kadri Vihvelin
language: en
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Release Date: 2013-05-06
Common sense tells us that we are morally responsible for our actions only if we have free will -- and that we have free will only if we are able to choose among alternative actions. Common sense tells us that we do have free will and are morally responsible for many of the things we do. Common sense also tells us that we are objects in the natural world, governed by its laws. Nevertheless, many contemporary philosophers deny that we have free will or that free will is a necessary prerequisite for moral responsibility. Some hold that we are morally responsible only if we are somehow exempt from the laws of nature. Causes, Laws, and Free Will defends a thesis that has almost disappeared from the contemporary philosophical landscape by arguing that this philosophical flight from common sense is a mistake. We have free will even if everything we do is predictable given the laws of nature and the past, and we are morally responsible whatever the laws of nature turn out to be. The impulses that tempt us into thinking that determinism robs us of free will spring from mistakes -- mistakes about the metaphysics of causation, mistakes about the nature of laws, and mistakes about the logic of counterfactuals.
Determinism or Free-Will?
In "Determinism or Free-Will?", Chapman Cohen meticulously navigates the intricate philosophical waters surrounding the longstanding debate between determinism and free will. Drawing upon a rich tapestry of philosophical thought, he delves into the implications of each stance, particularly how they influence moral responsibility and human agency. Cohen's literary style is both accessible and intellectually rigorous, embracing clarity while addressing complex arguments from notable figures throughout history. His comprehensive approach situates the conversation within the broader context of early 20th-century philosophical discourse, making it a significant work for both contemporary and classical scholars. Chapman Cohen, a prominent figure in the early 1900s' rationalist movement, was influenced by his own experiences and the intellectual climate of his time, which fostered a profound interest in the relationship between human thought and action. As a writer and activist, Cohen was dedicated to advocating for secularism and humanism, often grappling with the implications of free will in areas such as morality and ethics. His background as a rationalist lends a unique perspective to the existential questions posed in this work, reflecting his commitment to advancing human understanding. "Determinism or Free-Will?" is a compelling read for anyone intrigued by the philosophical underpinnings of choice and consequence. Cohen's thought-provoking insights make it a valuable addition to the library of both philosophy students and casual readers alike. Whether you are searching for clarity in your understanding of free will or seeking to engage with philosophical debates, Cohen's work invites deep reflection and critical thinking.
