In philosophy, the discussion of free will is a hardy perennial. After thousands of years, philosophers continue to debate a range of inconsistent positions, with little success. So, what makes this problem so knotty and as good as intractable? After a sketch of the main positions in the debate, Peter Wyss will address this question.
Perhaps free will is a ‘problem’, because it is ill posed. On the one hand, determinism demands to regard ourselves as objects, rather than agents, in the world. This outside view of ourselves doesn’t square with our inside view. Hence, free will is a ‘problem’ because it requires us to let go of our first-person perspective. This is impossible. On the other, indeterminism introduces randomness or unpredictability into the discussion. This doesn’t square with our experience. Hence, free will is a ‘problem’ because it undermines our view as causal agents in the world – and this is odd.
Join us for a thought-provoking journey as we unravel arguments, challenge perspectives, and rethink the nature of free will.
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SPEAKER – PETER WYSS
Peter is a philosophical practitioner with more than fifteen years experience in higher and continuing education. For Oxford University and as a part of his private practice – Thinkery, he teaches a broad range of philosophical topics, yet his main interest is in ancient philosophy. When working, he is keen to raise awareness for the idea that philosophy is, or can be, a useful tool for reflecting on our everyday lives, and so for helping us to live well. Peter holds a PhD in philosophy and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
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