Issues & Debates - Free Will & Determinism Flashcards
Define the free will vs determinism debate
The extent to which our behavior is the result of forces over which we have no control or whether people are able to decide for themselves whether to behave in a certain way
Define biological determinism
The view that behaviour is always caused by internal biological
forces beyond our control, such as the influence of genes. For example, research on intelligence has identified particular genes in those with high intelligence.
Also, genes which affect brain structure and neurotransmitter production may also determine our behaviour e.g. the MAOA gene being candidate gene for criminality
Define environmental determinism
Behaviour is shaped by learning- being rewarded and punished for certain behaviours, associating stimuli with response, and so on. For example, someone has a phobia of dogs because they were knocked over by a dog as a child, and have avoided dogs ever since, never un-learning the association.
Define psychic determinism
Behaviour is shaped by unconscious conflicts and forces we are not aware of, so even if our decisions seem like they are due to free will, this is just an illusion.
Outline hard determinism vs soft determinism
Hard determinism is the theory that human behaviour and actions are entirely determined by internal or external factors, and therefore humans do not have genuine free will or ethical accountability. Behaviourists support this perspective.
Soft determinism is the theory that there are constraints on our behaviour but within these limitations we are free to make some choices. Cognitive psychologists support this perspective.
Define free will
Argues that we ourselves direct our behaviour through our will so that we make choices and our behaviour is voluntary. Humanistic psychologists support this perspective.
Evaluate determinism - legal system
The deterministic approach has implications for criminal responsibility, suggesting that offenders can’t be blamed for their crimes. This is unacceptable to most people, and does not reflect how the legal system operates.
Evaluate free will - brain activity
Soon et al (2008) found that the brain is active even before being consciously aware of making a decision, suggesting that free will may actually not exist.
Evaluate free will - face validity
Free will has face validity, meaning that, on the face of it, it seems like an accurate concept. Even thinking we have free will may have a positive impact on behaviour.
