Free Will And Determinism

Question 1

Free will

Answer 1

The notion that humans can make choices and their behaviour and thoughts are not determined by biological or external forces.

Question 2

Determinism

Answer 2

The view that an individual’s behaviour is shaped or controlled by internal or external forces, rather than an individuals will to do something.

Question 3

Hard determinism

Answer 3

All behaviour is caused by something, so free will is an illusion.

Question 4

Soft determinism

Answer 4

Behaviours may be predictable but there is also room for personal choice from a limited range of possibilities. “Restricted free will”.

Question 5

Biological determinism

Answer 5

Behaviour is caused by biological influences that cannot be controlled.

Question 6

Environment determinism

Answer 6

Behaviour is caused by features of the environment that cannot be controlled.

Question 7

Psychic determinism

Answer 7

Behaviour is caused by unconscious psychodynamic conflicts that cannot be controlled.