Do We Have Free Will?

Open to Debate

Are we the true authors of our actions – or are we guided by a preordained fate? From the days of Greek philosophers to the present, the notion of free will and the question of whether humans can make their own choices is as captivating as ever. Those who think that free will exists consider it foundational to a rules-based society since it holds individuals accountable for their actions. Those who don’t believe in it argue everything that happens to us, and our actions and choices, is determined by prior existing conditions. Though we may feel in control of our actions, they are influenced by factors outside of our control, like upbringing, societal pressures, and biological predispositions.

With this background, we now debate the question: Do We Have Free Will?

Arguing Yes: Roy Baumeister, Social Psychologist, Author of “Free Will and Consciousness: How Might They Work”

Arguing No: Robert Sapolsky, Neuroscientist; Professor at Stanford University

Nayeema Raza, Journalist at New York Magazine and Vox, is the guest moderator.

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