Determinism Vs Free Will Flashcards
Definition of deterministic
Behaviour is determined by forces outside a persons individual control as a result of biology, evolution or the environment
Suggests we dont have a choice in how we behave
Definition of free will
The idea that we are able to have choice in how we act and assumes that we are free to choose out behaviour
Core study example of determinism and free will
Milgrams study could be deterministic 65% of participants were determind by the situation to administer the shocks however it can be considered free will as 35% of participants didnt obey so could argue they chose how they acted
Strengths of assuming behaviour is deterministic
Recognises causes of behaviour which is good as we can predict behaviour - more scientific this was and scientific research has value
Interventions can be put in place to prevent negative behaviours from occuring. Can lead to development of treatments
Weaknesses of assuming behaviour is deterministic
Can be socially sensitive to say behaviour is inevitable/predictable its going to happen
Takes away responsibility of our behaviour its reductionalistbto assume we cant control our behaviour
Strengths of assuming behaviour is a result of free will
Puts responsibility on individuals such as criminals, suggests behaviour can be changed if we have control
Can be useful with therapy and treatments, interventions can be put in place to stop negative behaviours
Weaknesses of assuming behaviour is a result of free will
Doesnt support biological processes that may be dificult to control
May be less scientific and more difficult to research free will
Example of determinism
Casey - your ability to delay gratification is determind by your neurology and that individuals who cant delay gratification are low delayers.
Example of free will
Could suggest that bocciaros study can shownfree will as 14 participants chose to whistle blow which as a result shows the chose their behaviour
