Neurophilosophy of free will

Autor*innen

• Henrik Walter

Parameter

• 420 Seiten
• 15 Lesestunden

• Neurowissenschaft
• Philosophie
• Wissenschaft

Mehr zum Buch

Walter employs neurophilosophy to address the philosophical challenge of free will, drawing on scientific insights about brain function. He argues that philosophers should integrate findings from neuroscience into their discussions of consciousness, thought, language, and more. Walter's exploration of free will leads to a nuanced conclusion: whether we possess free will depends on several factors. He examines key questions: (1) Can we choose differently than we do? (2) Are our choices made intelligibly? (3) Are we the true originators of our choices? Walter posits that if free will implies the ability to choose otherwise under identical conditions while being the sole originators of our actions, then it is an illusion. Instead, he introduces the concept of natural autonomy, which is self-determination that does not rely on supernatural influences and can exist even in a fully determined universe. While natural autonomy challenges traditional notions of guilt and certain self-perceptions, it does not negate the idea of responsibility. We are not simply puppets; we have a significant influence over our thoughts and actions, maintaining a form of agency within the constraints of our circumstances.

• Sprache: Englisch
• Erscheinungsdatum: 2001
• Einband: Hardcover