Why Does Free Will Not Exist: Exploring Determinism And Choice

Why can’t free will exist? This question stems from the concept of determinism, which asserts that every choice a person makes is influenced by external events and factual circumstances beyond their control. In a deterministic worldview, if every action is traceable back to external factors, it follows that individuals cannot be considered the ultimate originators of their decisions and actions. Consequently, under determinism, the notion of free will becomes untenable, as individuals cannot exercise true autonomy over their choices.

The question of whether free will genuinely exists has been a subject of deep contemplation. When we delve into this matter, it becomes evident that the presence of free will hinges on the alignment of our choices with our experiential sense of self. I personally connect with my tastes and preferences on a conscious level, viewing them as direct expressions of my individuality. This perspective underscores the notion that free will is intertwined with our ability to make choices that resonate with our core identity. This discussion was originally recorded on February 5, 2020.