Determinism vs Free Will: Crash Course Philosophy

The video explores the philosophical debate between libertarian free will and hard determinism. It begins with the story of Oedipus to illustrate the concept of fate. Libertarian free will suggests that humans can make free choices, while hard determinism argues that every action is determined by prior events. The video discusses reductionism, which ties mental states to physical brain states, supporting determinism. It concludes by highlighting the challenges of reconciling free will with determinism and the implications for personal responsibility.

What is the main philosophical lesson from the story of Oedipus?

• Time heals all wounds.

• Knowledge is power.

• Love conquers all.

• Fate is unavoidable.

What does libertarian free will suggest about human actions?

• They are predetermined by past events.

• They are entirely free and independent.

• They are influenced by government policies.

• They are random and unpredictable.

According to libertarian free will, what is necessary for an action to be considered free?

• A government intervention.

• A predetermined outcome.

• Multiple options to choose from.

• A random decision-making process.

What does hard determinism claim about human actions?

• They are free and independent.

• They are caused by previous events.

• They are random and unpredictable.

• They are influenced by supernatural forces.

How does reductionism relate to the concept of free will?

• It suggests that free will is an illusion.

• It supports the idea of free will.

• It argues that free will is a political concept.

• It claims that free will is a supernatural phenomenon.

What is a major implication of hard determinism?

• It argues that fate can be changed.

• It suggests that personal responsibility is an illusion.

• It supports the concept of personal responsibility.

• It claims that all actions are random.

What challenge does hard determinism present to the feeling of freedom?

• It enhances the feeling of freedom.

• It suggests that the feeling of freedom is an illusion.

• It claims that freedom is a political right.

• It argues that freedom is a natural state.