Free Will in the Era of Neuroscience: A Philosophical Debate on Autonomy

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Published Sep 1, 2024
https://doi.org/10.61506/02.00329
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Vol. 10 No. 3 (2024): Journal of Policy Research

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Mehak Maqbool
Visiting Faculty (Lecturer), Department of Philosophy and Liberal Arts, Government College University (GCU), Lahore.
Dr. Sobia Tahir
Assistant Professor, Department of Philosophy and Liberal Arts, Government College University (GCU), Lahore

Abstract

This research paper explores the philosophical debate surrounding free will and autonomy within the context of new neuroscientific advancements. Neuroscience has raised significant questions about conventional views of loose will by way of revealing that subconscious brain approaches may also precede and influence human decision-making. Through a critical exam of classical and current theories—such as libertarianism, compatibilism, and determinism—and the analysis of key neuroscientific studies, this paper aims to evaluate whether or not unfastened will remains a feasible idea in light of those findings. The research investigates whether or not autonomy is fundamentally undermined or requires redefinition inside the face of scientific evidence, while additionally exploring the ethical and prison implications of such demanding situations. The look at concludes that notwithstanding the neuroscientific demanding situations, a refined understanding of unfastened will, well suited with scientific insights, can nevertheless be defended. The paper affords a nuanced attitude on how autonomy can be reconceptualized in an generation ruled by neuroscience. Ultimately, this study contributes to ongoing interdisciplinary discussions in philosophy, cognitive science, and ethics, providing a framework for reconciling human autonomy with contemporary neuroscientific discoveries.

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How to Cite
[1]
Maqbool, M. and Tahir, S. 2024. Free Will in the Era of Neuroscience: A Philosophical Debate on Autonomy. Journal of Policy Research. 10, 3 (Sep. 2024), 135–141. DOI:https://doi.org/10.61506/02.00329.
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