Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis explores the complex interplay between free will and determinism within the context of modern philosophy. The debate surrounding free will and determinism has been a central focus of philosophical inquiry for centuries, with scholars offering diverse perspectives on the extent to which human actions are predetermined by external forces or can be considered products of autonomous choice. By delving into this fundamental philosophical question, this study aims to shed light on the nature of human agency and the implications of deterministic frameworks on notions of personal responsibility and moral accountability. The research begins by providing an overview of the historical background that has shaped the discourse on free will and determinism, tracing key developments in philosophical thought from ancient Greece to the contemporary era. Through a critical analysis of influential philosophical works, this study identifies the core arguments and positions that have shaped the contemporary debate on free will and determinism. Building on this foundation, the research then presents a comprehensive literature review that synthesizes existing scholarship on the topic. By examining a diverse range of perspectives, this review highlights the various approaches taken by philosophers to reconcile the apparent tensions between free will and determinism. The review also identifies key areas of consensus and contention within the philosophical community, setting the stage for the subsequent methodological exploration. The methodological section of the thesis outlines the research design and approach employed in this study. Drawing on both qualitative and quantitative methods, the research seeks to engage with primary texts, conduct critical analysis, and explore empirical data to deepen our understanding of the relationship between free will and determinism. By adopting a multidisciplinary approach, the study aims to provide a nuanced and comprehensive analysis of this complex philosophical issue. The findings of the research are presented in the subsequent chapter, which offers a detailed discussion of the implications of determinism on concepts of free will and moral responsibility. By examining the philosophical, ethical, and practical dimensions of these concepts, the study highlights the diverse ways in which individuals and societies grapple with questions of choice, agency, and accountability in a deterministic world. In conclusion, this thesis synthesizes the key insights gleaned from the research to offer a nuanced and reflective analysis of the concept of free will in relation to determinism in modern philosophy. By engaging with a diverse range of perspectives and methodologies, the study contributes to ongoing philosophical debates while also inviting further reflection and inquiry into the nature of human agency and the limits of determinism.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "An exploration of the concept of free will in relation to determinism in modern philosophy" delves into the intricate interplay between free will and determinism, two fundamental concepts that have captivated philosophers for centuries. In modern philosophy, the debate over whether human beings possess genuine free will or if their actions are predetermined by various factors has been a central point of contention. This research seeks to critically analyze and evaluate the concept of free will within the framework of determinism, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the philosophical implications inherent in these opposing viewpoints. The exploration of free will entails an examination of the capacity of individuals to make choices that are not causally determined by external factors. On the other hand, determinism posits that all events, including human actions, are predetermined by a chain of causation. By juxtaposing these contrasting perspectives, this research aims to elucidate the complexities surrounding human agency and the extent to which individuals have control over their choices and actions. Through an interdisciplinary approach that synthesizes insights from various philosophical traditions, the project will analyze key philosophical works that have shaped the discourse on free will and determinism. By engaging with the ideas of renowned philosophers such as Immanuel Kant, David Hume, and Jean-Paul Sartre, among others, this research seeks to trace the evolution of thought on free will and determinism and explore the implications of these concepts for contemporary philosophical inquiries. Moreover, the research will address the ethical and metaphysical implications of the debate between free will and determinism, considering how these concepts intersect with broader questions related to moral responsibility, personal identity, and the nature of reality. By critically evaluating the arguments presented by proponents of both free will and determinism, this project aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in reconciling these seemingly contradictory positions. Ultimately, this research endeavors to contribute to the ongoing philosophical discourse on free will and determinism by offering a comprehensive analysis of the conceptual and practical implications of these philosophical concepts. By exploring the tensions and synergies between free will and determinism, this project seeks to deepen our understanding of the nature of human agency and the extent to which individuals can be considered the authors of their own actions in a deterministic world.