Is there such thing as freedom or are we mere puppets on strings? In a purely deterministic, uncaring universe, where the laws of physics are applicable to all, freedom as we define it is impossible. In a universe where a supreme, all-knowing, all-powerful God exists, freedom is also equally impossible. Well, the more accurate term to use here is freewill. Freewill can be defined as the ability to choose without intimidation or compelling force. Freewill presupposes deliberation. Hence, a person with freewill can be fully held responsible for his or her actions. It is on the idea of freewill on which the judicial system, particularly criminal law hinges. How can you punish someone if he or she does not have the ability to contemplate the consequence of his or her actions? Hence, insanity is a mitigating circumstance when it comes to criminal jurisprudence. However, even insane persons still have some degree of contemplation.
The universe, as we know it, is governed by the laws of physics. The laws of physics are applicable to everything that exists – from the smallest particles to the grandest galaxies. The laws of physics are deterministic. This means that for every effect, there is a traceable series of causes. For instance, if you are familiar with playing billiards, you will notice that the path of a ball can be guided depending on the force, angle and direction of the pole hitting that particular ball. The level, surface contour and stability of the billiard table are also determining factors. The same deterministic principles also apply in the way our brain works. Our consciousness, thought patterns and sense of identity are all determined by the biochemical and electrical reactions that are occurring in our brains. If you change, any of these parameters, the brain processes also change. This can readily be observed in people who take mind-altering drugs or people that suffer from brain injuries.
On the other hand, the concept of an all-knowing, all-powerful God is also incompatible with freewill. For a God to be all-knowing, everything must be predestined. Otherwise, God will not know in advance. Ironically, the concept of God and a purely deterministic universe are logically agreeable with each other. In order for God to know everything from beginning to end, it would require everything to be pre-programmed and scripted as if God would simply watch a film that he directed and written.
If you ask me if I personally believe in freewill, my answer is yes. This is because I do not believe in a deterministic universe that is purely governed by the laws of physics or by a supreme God. I believe in a probabilistic universe – a universe where probability or chance exists. The theory that supports this idea is the Chaos Theory, which I think deserves a separate blog post.
Jan 15, 2008
Beyond Freedom and Responsibility
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