Vrije Wil, Determinisme, Neurowetenschap

In order to find a convincing position in the ‘free will’ debate, two sorts of determinism are distinguished. The merits of encompassing determinism, which is determinism as it is usually understood, and individual determinism, which focuses on the agent, are brought to the fore. The existence of encompassing determinism cannot conclusively be proven, but it may be demonstrated, on the basis of individual determinism, that actions come about in a determined way, leaving no room for ‘free will’. In order to facilitate the discussion, recent scientific developments in such diverse fields as, e.g., quantum mechanics and neuropsychology are incorporated. Balancing the arguments, I aspire to a consistent and nuanced viewpoint, not eschewing divergent conclusions.

De vrije wil, bestaat-ie nu wel of bestaat-ie nu niet? Niet zelden wordt in de discussie over de vrije wil de indruk gewekt dat deze twee uitersten de enige keuzen zijn. De hedendaagse filosofie biedt echter een veel rijker geschakeerd beeld over de vrije wil.