Free Will: The Basics

The Basics

by Meghan Griffith

The question of whether humans are free to make their own decisions has long been debated and it continues to be a controversial topic today. In Free Will: The Basics readers are provided with a clear and accessible introduction to this central but challenging philosophical problem. The questions which are discussed include:
Does free will exist? Or is it illusory?
Can we be free even if everything is determined by a chain of causes? If our actions are not determined, does this mean they are just random or a matter of luck?
In order to have the kind of freedom required for moral responsibility, must we have alternatives?
What can recent developments in science tell us about the existence of free will?
Because these questions are discussed without prejudicing one view over others and all technical terminology is clearly explained, this book is an ideal introduction to free will for the uninitiated.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction

161 pages, ebook

First published November 30, 2012

Reviews

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have happened upon something rare and impossible: a (nearly) perfect philosophy book. I will even go as far as to call it a (nearly) perfect didactic book. I often start nonfiction books with high hopes. Sometimes as I read the intro, I think to myself wow, this author writes clearly, maybe her examples will also be clear. Then I read on and the first example does happen to be clear. I continue enthusiastically to the next example, and that’s when I get smacked in the face with a convoluted riddle of impenetrability. Philosophers specifically enjoy verbalizing in the most roundabout way possible. But not Meghan Griffith. I truly appreciate the clarity of this book. If you think you’re smart, if you think you have big thoughts about LIFE, you should read this and marvel at how deeply others have already thought about the topic of free will. I personally didn't realize that so much of the discussion hinges on whether you believe determinism and free will is compatible.

[مهدی محمدی · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an introductory book, I think the book is very well written. I like the tone of its prose, and the way the author explains different theories and also well known objections to them.
However, probably because of the limitation of space, sometimes discussions are too short and aren't so informative.

[Stephen Cranney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Understandable, good overview of the subject. I especially appreciated the author problematizing the simplistic understanding of the Libet experiments that to some supposedly demonstrate that free will is illusory. Good starting point for anyone interested in the subject and its implications for moral and other judgments.

[Taylor Cyr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic introduction to the free will debate, hands down the best for introducing the topic at the undergraduate level. It introduces many of the most important issues and positions in an accurate but simple way. Planning to use this as a teaching resource.

[Michael Jarvie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A pretty useful introduction to the subject.

[Steve Herreid · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really excellent book explaining the philosophical issues involved in the free will debate. Griffith is such a clear writer. One of the best introductions to the subject I have seen.

[Sarah]

Tbh at this point I think I’m using this app wrong

[Anna]

Twas a clear (and maybe forking?) path through the field.

A bit dry but the little defense of philosophy at the end felt very David Hume playing backgammon with friends coded and I enjoyed :)

[Fausto DiDonato · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Meghan Griffith for helping me with my philosophy isp