Computational Irreducibility and the Limits of Prediction

Computational irreducibility implies that even with all the necessary information, predicting the behavior of a system still requires an irreducible amount of computational work. This challenges the traditional notion of prediction and raises questions about free will. The complexity theory has changed our understanding of complex systems and the ability to predict them, posing a fundamental problem for the argument against free will. William James's experience with depression and his decision to believe in free will despite its unanswerable nature serves as a lesson in choosing to move forward. These insights are discussed by Eric Hoel, author of 'The World Behind the World: Consciousness, Free Will, and the Limits of Science' during the podcast.