The Partially Examined Life Philosophy Podcast
Precognition of Ep. 93: Free Will (via Strawsons)
Apr 29, 2014
Tamler Sommers, a philosopher and co-host of the Very Bad Wizards podcast, breaks down significant works by Galen and P.F. Strawson. He delves into the complexities of free will and moral responsibility through a skeptical lens, questioning the foundations of moral accountability. The conversation also highlights the interplay between determinism and moral responsibility, stressing the vital role of human relationships and societal attitudes. Sommers' insights spark thought-provoking discussions about justice and personal accountability.
14:29
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast emphasizes the critical link between free will and moral responsibility, influencing societal perceptions of blame and ethical actions.
- Galen Strawson's skepticism about moral responsibility challenges the validity of assigning blame, highlighting the complexities of character control and accountability.
Deep dives
The Connection Between Free Will and Moral Responsibility
The discussion centers around the relationship between free will and moral responsibility, highlighting that the primary philosophical concern is whether individuals can be held morally accountable for their actions. Many philosophers agree that the notion of free will is often defined in relation to one's ability to be morally responsible, which is crucial in contexts such as punishment and ethics. This connection is significant because it affects how society perceives actions in terms of blame and praise, impacting areas like criminal justice and personal relationships. Understanding this link is essential to grasp the varying positions on moral responsibility debated among philosophers.
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