8.2.2 Free Will

Free will: The idea that we have full control over our behaviour

e.g. The humanistic approach assumes free will

The scientific emphasis on causal explanations

Free will – The idea that we have choices over how we act. we are self-determining and free to choose our thoughts and actions. Understands that there are biological and environmental forces that influence our behaviour but we can reject them and override their influence. "The masters of our destiny"

Determinism – free will is unable to explain behaviour as we have no choice in our actions. Our behaviours are shaped by our biology learning and thoughts

Believe we are making conscious decisions but they a motivated by societal expectations and parental expectations. Only an element of choice

Free will: Evaluation

(4)

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P: Free will is supported by psychological theories and research.

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E: For example, humanistic psychology emphasizes personal growth and self-actualization, which are grounded in the concept of free will.

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E: Therefore, free will aligns with positive aspects of human behaviour and personal development

(5)

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P: The notion of free will facilitates moral responsibility.

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E: For example, if all behaviours are determined, it would be too difficult to hold individuals accountable for their actions, as they would have no control over them.

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E: Therefore, free will support the justice system and our sense of personal responsibility, which are fundamental to societal functioning

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