Explain one argument and then make a counter argument on one flaw you see in the argument you chose.
For example: If you choose dualism, your counter argument would be on one thing you see wrong
Dualism vs. Physicalism
Full Answer Section
Counter-Argument:
The counter-argument to this flaw suggests that our conscious experience of free will might be an illusion. Even if we feel like we have the freedom to choose, our choices could be pre-determined by factors we are not consciously aware of. This argument proposes that our brain's neural activity, governed by physical laws and prior events, could be determining our choices, even if we feel like we are making them freely.
Example:
Imagine a person deciding to order a pizza. Their choice might seem like a free decision, based on their current cravings and preferences. However, a deterministic perspective would argue that this decision was ultimately influenced by a complex chain of events, including:
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Previous experiences: Their past experiences with pizza, their exposure to advertising, and their genetic predisposition to enjoying certain flavors.
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Current circumstances: Their current hunger levels, their emotional state, and the availability of pizza delivery options.
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Brain activity: The neural activity in their brain, responding to these various factors, leading to the final decision.
In this example, even though the person feels like they are making a free choice, their decision is ultimately a product of their brain activity, which is governed by physical laws and prior events.
Conclusion:
The free will defense against determinism presents a compelling argument for human autonomy, but the connection between consciousness and free will remains a complex and debated issue. The counter-argument, emphasizing the potential for a deterministic explanation of consciousness and choice, challenges the notion of genuine free will and highlights the ongoing debate about the nature of human agency.
Sample Answer
Argument: The Free Will Defense Against Determinism
Argument:
The free will defense against determinism argues that human beings have genuine free will, meaning they can choose between different actions, and are not simply predetermined to act in a specific way. This challenges the deterministic view that all events are predetermined and inevitable, including our actions.
Flaw:
The Problem of Consciousness and Free Will:
One potential flaw in the free will defense is its reliance on the subjective experience of consciousness. Determinism argues that all events, including our thoughts and decisions, are ultimately caused by prior events. The free will defense counter-argues that we have a conscious experience of making choices, suggesting a level of autonomy that deterministic models cannot explain.