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Determinism, 2004.
This paper discusses whether there is a meaningful distinction between hard and soft determinism and the implication of this distinction.
1,550 words (approx. 6.2 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that philosophers debate, based on Newtonian Determinism, from two views with opposite implications for human life and moral judgment, whether humans genuinely have free will. The author points out that, according to the Hard Determinism point of view, since every individual event is a necessary result of prior causes, the eventual outcome of every single event, which occurs in the universe, is predetermined. The paper relates that Soft Determinism accepts the overall premise that all events in the universe are indeed completely necessary and unchangeable results of events and conditions that precede them, but the distinction between Hard and Soft Determinism is that the latter postulates that free will and the genuine ability to make decisions and to shape our own lives in an ongoing manner are nevertheless possible.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Hard Determinism
Implications of Hard Determinism
Soft Determinism
Implications of Soft Determinism
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The argument is that only inanimate objects and events (such as the tides, earthquakes, and the solar orbits of the planets) are completely determined by preceding natural conditions and events in the manner that the course of Osmo?s life was charted before he lived it. On the other hand, under soft determinism, internal living processes (especially human thoughts) are still subject to free will and mental choices by which sentient beings may determine what happens in their lives, despite the fact that the rest of the (inanimate) universe strictly obeys the principles of hard determinism.
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Freedom and Determinism, 2002.
A discussion on the rejection of the libertarian position and the affirmation of soft determinism.
1,400 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper is an analysis and overview of the concepts of freedom over and against 'determinism'. The position of determinism will be defended in light of a passage or paragraph taken from the work and philosophy of Baron d' Holbach. This paper will begin with a general overview of the positions involved in the debate. In turn, following the overview of freewill, determinism, and compatibilism, this paper will present an analysis of both the 'passage' or 'quote' in question, but also outline some of the tenets and ideas of B.F. Skinner from a work titled 'Beyond Freedom and Dignity'. Next, an argument will be presented which defends a 'soft determinist' or 'compatibilist' argument which is made by A.J. Ayer.
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Determinism vs. Free Will, 2005.
An overview of the concept of determinism versus the concept of free will.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 2 sources, $ 26.95
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Abstract
Determinism says that the environment, heredity, defense mechanisms, and other influences direct the way people act. Soft determinism states that people are determined, but they also are free. The paper shows that human behavior is the result of different deterministic forces that directs them in making different choices with people not being forced to act in certain ways, because they have the freedom to make choices as shown and stated in the philosophy of soft determinism.
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Determinism and Free Will, 2004.
A philosophical debate regarding the co-existence of determinism and free will in one's life.
1,458 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The conflict between determinism and free will is a long-standing one. It is one of those philosophical issues that might never be fortunate enough to receive a unanimously agreed upon solution, and, for this reason, it is up to each person how he views the issues and seeks to resolve it. This paper explains that, as with most philosophical theories, the relationship of determinism and free will is a contentious issue because they oppose each other, and in order to support one, you need to give up the other. It is generally believed that the two cannot exist together for they are in conflict with each other and, thus, are incompatible. This paper provides definitions of the terms in order to help the reader decide whether the two are compatible or not and if free will has any place in the doctrine of determinism.
From the Paper
"Determinism therefore ignores the role of choices or moral responsibility and primarily focuses on the role of previous events or cause in the creation of a new event. For example, when a person misbehaves with an elderly determinism would free him of his moral responsibility to have behaved more properly and instead study the causes of his behavior. Determinists believe that behind every current event is a past cause or event and keeping this view in mind, we would probably acquit the misbehaving person and instead accuse those past causes and events that mad him behave the way he did."
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Determinism, 2004.
This paper offers a discussion of the concepts of free will and determinism.
2,700 words (approx. 10.8 pages), 12 sources, MLA, $ 95.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer looks at the concepts of free will and determinism. The paper focuses on the perception of human choice from the world view of scientific determinism and Hinduism. The paper argues that the admission of a degree of free will in Hindu philosophy is incompatible with the notion of scientific determinism.
From the Paper
"The issues to be decided in this research include the following: What is scientific determinism? What is the role of determinism and free will in Hinduism? Is scientific determinism compatible with Hinduism? What forces influence human thought and action? The methodology employed to address these issues includes the use of literature, religious sermons, textbooks, research, journal articles and Web sites devoted to the issues of determinism in determinism free will and Hinduism. Such sources have provided the research from which the following analysis is ... "
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Free Will and Determinism, 2006.
An overview of theories about free will and determinism and how they are relevant to criminal law and the judicial system.
1,229 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper begins with a discussion and explanation of theories about free will and determinism, explaining that most people believe in both determinism and free will, even though there is a basic contradiction between the two theories. The paper then takes a look at how we can apply the theory of determinism to the study of criminal law and the judicial system if we, at the same time, believe in free will.
From the Paper
"Most individuals are inclined to believe that every event or occurrence has a cause, rather than think that things happen haphazardly. The belief that there is a cause to every event is known as determinism. To think otherwise would be considered nonsense. It would be ridiculous if someone thought, for example, that her clock stopped working for no reason whatsoever. Even if no one could determine the precise cause or causes, we still would not accept the idea that the clock's stopping had no cause. Whether the subject is clocks, lights coming on, the workings of a computer, or the common cold, each has a cause. The same could be said for the actions of humans, every action that is said or done have causes. An action is an event. The actions may be caused by hereditary, previous experiences, some peculiarity in personality, the circumstances under which the act occurred, etc. Most would agree that actions have causes; otherwise they would happen by chance and that is thought is frightening."
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Free Will vs. Determinism, 2004.
An overview of the current thinking of free will versus determinism.
2,148 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
The paper briefly discusses the history of this philosophical debate and then delves into the current ideas about free will vs. determinism, including chaos theory, fuzzy math, and neuro-genetic determinism.
From the Paper
"The emerging combination of genetics and brain science (neurogenetics) offers the idea that behavior stems from our genetic makeup. This theory asserts that we are not the owners of a free will because we are constantly being pushed in the direction our genes have chosen for us. Neurogeneticists say that not only are our genes the answer to our problems but can also cure us of whatever we suffer from if thy can be manipulated or tuned on and off at will. According to them a man is homosexual because he has a gay brain and a woman may be depressed because she has the genes for depression. This kind of determinism locates the problem in the individual and becomes a ?blame the victim? society."
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Environmental Determinism and Probabilism, 2008.
Defines the theories of environmental determinism and probalilism and their application to understanding mankind.
1,390 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 46.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that environmental probabilism states that almost all or any behaviors may be probable within one or in any environment; whereas, determinism states that it is the physical environment and not social conditions, which shape a person's character and behaviors. The author points out that the concept environmental probabilism has emerged as a direct result of reactions to the supposed shortcomings and inadequacies of environmental determinism. Although these environmental theories today are being used in anthropological research to better understand the exact role human beings play in nature, the paper concludes that hopefully more theories related to these theories will emerge soon, which will explain human behavior in a more succinct and terse manner.
From the Paper
"Reportedly, Winston Churchill made the statement that a human being shapes a building, and thereafter, the building shapes him. He meant to say that there exists a subtle relationship between one's building and one's behavior; environmental psychologists have found this to be true after extensive research on the subject. The relationship is viewed through a list of possibilities and probabilities, and this then is the principle upon which 'probabilism' is based. This concept has given rise to the idea that there is a probability of the built environment playing a positive or a negative role on organizations and campus environments."
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| Term Paper # 60642 |
temporarily unavailable
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Hume as a Soft Determinist: The Reconciliation of Freewill and Determinism, 2002.
An overview of Davis Hume's views on freewill and determinism from his work "Of Liberty and Necessity".
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 1 source, $ 62.95
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Abstract
This paper is an analysis of the question of freewill and determinism as interpreted from the writings of David Hume. Specifically, this paper will present an overview and analysis of Hume's argument from "Of Liberty and Necessity", and it will be demonstrated that Hume is a 'soft determinist'. It will be argued that because 'necessity' (determinism) is a 'belief' that is conditioned in humans, and because certain patterns of behavior cross-culturally can be observed and understood as similar, that he is therefore a determinist to some extent.
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Determinism and "Sliding Doors", 2005.
This paper defines the theory of determinism and examines how this theme is portrayed in Peter Howitt's movie, "Sliding Doors".
717 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
Determinism is an integral theme in director Peter Howitt's movie, "Sliding Doors". This paper explains how, in the movie, a small, seemingly insignificant act makes profound changes in the life of the lead character, Helen. Nonetheless, as the movie progresses, it becomes clear that some fundamental aspects of Helen's life, which are told in parallel stories, remain the same, suggesting some role for determinism.
From the Paper
"The movie, Sliding Doors, tackles the problem of determinism vs. free will head on. Sliding Doors examines two potential parallel life courses for a young British woman, Helen (Gwyneth Paltrow). Helen is fired from her PR job, and goes home in the middle of the day on an underground train. In one timeline, Helen catches the train, and finds her lover, Gerry (played by John Lynch) in bed with Lydia (Jeanne Tripplehorn). She leaves the apartment, goes to a pub, where she runs into James (John Hannah), a young man she had spoken to on the train on the way home. Helen makes some major changes in her life and career, and begins to fall in love with James."
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Technological Determinism, 2005.
A literary discussion on technological determinism.
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 1 source, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews James Carey, Thomas Hughes and Brian Winston present respective articles. It explores their distinct approaches to the issue of technological determinism. It explains that while Carey emphasizes technological determinism, Hughes balances internalist and contextualist approaches and Winston argues for the most complex model of the three which emphasizes the critical role of cultural factors upon technological development. The paper argues, in comparing and contrasting the three approaches, that Winston's argument best explains anomalous examples in the history of technology that the other approaches could not easily explain.
From the Paper
"James Carey, Thomas Hughes and Brian Winston present - in their respective articles - distinct approaches to the issue of technological determinism. In general, while Carey emphasizes technological determinism, Hughes balances internalist and contextualist approaches, and Winston argues for the most complex model of the three which emphasizes the critical role of cultural factors upon technological development. This essay will argue, in comparing and contrasting the three approaches, that Winston's argument best explains anomalous examples in the history of technology that the other approaches could not easily explain. James Carey, in "Time, Space and the Telegraph," examines the social impact of telegraph technology upon the economic and social structure of 19th century America. While Carey does not address the issue of ..."
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Determinism in "Madame Bovary", 2000.
A review of Gustave Flaubert's "Madame Bovary", focusing on the determinism and fate of the characters of the novel.
1,657 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the novel "Madame Bovary" by Gustave Flaubert, discussing the theme of determinism and fate through the characters, Charles and Emma, and the relationship between them. The paper argues, citing evidence from the novel, that Charles Bovary accepts his fate submissively while Emma Bovary struggles passionately against it. Because Flaubert joined these two characters in marriage, his novel becomes absurd. The paper describes how Emma's adultery is her one and only fate, determined by her impossible marriage itself.
From the Paper
"?Fate? and ?destiny? are words a person uses when they believe that what has occurred was set in the stars. Whatever ?fate? they come to is unavoidable; nature and station predetermine a person?s actions and the circumstances surrounding their situation determine the eventual outcome of that situation. There is an inciting event, people react, challenges follow, all proceeding to a succession of events that point to only one possible conclusion. Their ?destiny? or ?fate? is the natural solution. This idea expressed in literature is called determinism. Determinism is the inexorable ?why? of the character?s success or demise; and characteristics inherent in their personality and their societal position are what cause their eventual end. In his novel, Madame Bovary, Gustave Flaubert reveals his remarkable ability to express this idea through the trials and tribulations of his characters, forever enchanting us with captivating imagery and his unique use of metaphors. His determinism is one sprinkled with pessimism; no matter how fervently a character struggles to avoid their ultimate fate, fighting reality proves a fruitless battle?their situation is hopeless."
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Determinism, 2003.
A look at the theme of free will and determinism in the context of Richard Taylor's "A Defense of Libertarian Freedom of the Will".
1,084 words (approx. 4.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 37.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how, since man first conceived of or was created by)God, the question of freedom of will has plagued the human race. If God is an all-knowing, all-powerful being, then he must know all of our actions before their execution, and they, therefore, must be, the argument goes, predetermined. It debates how, therefore, our only options would be to limit the knowledge of God or to admit our own lack of freedom. It deals with problems of free will, determinism, omniscience, and omnipotence, incorporating arguments brought up in Richard Taylor's, "A Defense of Libertarian Freedom of the Will."
From the Paper
"Unfortunately, as Taylor shows in his ?A Defense of Libertarian Freedom of the Will,? even blank denial of determinism is ultimately unreasonable. As soon as we suppose that any step in our chain of volition is ?uncaused,? we remove all sense of ?freedom? from our action because we end up admitting that we actually have nothing to do with our actions. If we assume that our body moves in a manner that is uncaused by our ?inner states,? then, obviously, we have no choice in what we do, and although our actions may not be predetermined, they are, nonetheless, far from ?free.? If we say that our bodily movements are caused by our volition, but our volition is uncaused, then similarly, our volition becomes ?unfree? in the manner that our body was in the previous example."
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Technological Determinism, 2006.
Reflections of Marshall McLuhan's technological determinism theory.
930 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper takes a look at how the evolution of human societies and the influence of technology in shaping the social (world) order, is captured best through Marshall McLuhan's technological determinism theory. This paper demonstrates how McLuhan's theory has influenced and served as a mirror to the radical changes occurring in today's human cultures.
From the Paper
"McLuhan's description of the future culture of the society cannot be any more specific than what we are witnessing today. With the presence of computer technologies, it has become possible for mass media to penetrate and reach people with the widest and most varied scope possible. Through the Internet and mobile technologies, it became possible to send/transmit messages to people, whether this message is in visual, audio, or audio-visual form. As a response to these cultural changes, society adapted by integrating these computer technologies in their everyday lives: keeping in touch with personal friends and family became easier through mobile phones, and using the computer anywhere is possible through notebooks and PDAs, among others. "
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