Abstract
This chapter offers an introductory overview of freedom and determinism. It contemplates common objections to determinism (presumed fatalism, denial of free choice, and negation of praise, blame, and responsibility). It identifies psychology's challenges to free will (evolutionary influences, genetic influences, brain control, parental/peer/cultural influences, and non-conscious influences). It indicates how psychological science nevertheless affirms human freedom, through research on selfdetermination and the benefits of personal control. Finally, it suggests how theological and practical wisdom converge with science in concluding that we are both the products of our biological and social histories, and the architects of our futures.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Are We Free? |
| Subtitle of host publication | Psychology and Free Will |
| Publisher | Oxford University Press |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9780199868605 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780195189636 |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Mar 20 2008 |
Keywords
- Determinism
- Fatalism
- Free will
- Freedom
- Responsibility
- Self-determination
- Wisdom
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Psychology