What Implications Does the Understanding of the Governing Mechanics of the Universe Have on the Concept of Free Will?

The purpose of this paper is to present the thesis that free will, in its strongest sense, is not compatible with the prevailing theories of the governing mechanics of the universe. Consequentially, the concept of free will must be revised in order to be reconcilable with these scientifically demonstrable theories. Free will is often understood in terms of agency, which is a product of an actor’s volitions. These volitions, in turn, are thought to be the product of the mind and conscious experience of the actor. Depending on the theory, the mind and conscious experience are believed to be rooted in the physical human body, often leading to discussions surrounding the relationship between the mind and body. As a result, it is easy for the topic of free will to become subsumed into these areas. By allowing the discussion on free will to be led by the governing mechanics of the universe, the free will discussion should remain unobscured. The governing mechanics of the universe are logical and coherent theories that have been established and supported by the scientific method. By adhering to these scientific theories, any model of free will that is discussed must also be in keeping with the spirit of the scientific method and, as a result, the governing mechanics of the universe. Discussions on the mind and consciousness will inevitably form due to the topics being inextricably linked. When introduced, the purpose of these theories will be to add value and build upon the free will debate. Similarly, the above methodology means that incompatible theories can quickly be discounted if they are not in keeping with the scientific method. Consequentially, the paper should lead towards a holistic conclusion on the implications of the governing mechanics of the universe for the concept of free will.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

ma

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Parker, Thomas

• BD Athroniaeth Ddamcaniaethol

Dc Identifier Grantnumber

UWTSD

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.uwtsd.ac.uk:3316