Sam Harris Free Will Analysis
Free Will
In the book, Free Will, Sam Harris asserts that “free will is an illusion.” Although Harris argues that free will is nonexistent because decisions are determined by preconceived thoughts and external factors, he fails to consider that our ability to rationalize is predicated by free will.
Admittedly, Harris accurately states that environmental conditions, such as culture and religion, influence the process of decision making. However, outside elements do not solely define individual’s course of action because one has the freedom to choose what they will. For example, people may be tied to a religious background and are obligated to practice that religion, but they have the free will to choose whether or not they believe in it. Decisions originate from personal beliefs and morals. Because there isn’t a universal set of morals that everyone should live …show more content…
Free will must exist; otherwise, humans would simply be “puppets of their genetic makeup” (Harris 10 ). If free will doesn’t exist, what would be the purpose of existence? One cannot blame their DNA for the choices they make because it is irrational and unreasonable. “My DNA made me do it” does not justify rape, murder, or other crimes. This excuse allows people to avoid their obligations and reality when they should be held responsible for their actions. The existence of free will is what separates the human race from animals. Without it, how different would humans be from animals?
In conclusion, free will exists, contrary to Harris’s beliefs. To deny the existence of free will is in itself an act of free will. External and internal influences may affect our decisions, but ultimately, humans possess the free will to rationalize their thoughts and control their behaviors. Free will allows for the progression of humanity and prevents us from being slaves of
In the book, Free Will, Sam Harris asserts that “free will is an illusion.” Although Harris argues that free will is nonexistent because decisions are determined by preconceived thoughts and external factors, he fails to consider that our ability to rationalize is predicated by free will.
Admittedly, Harris accurately states that environmental conditions, such as culture and religion, influence the process of decision making. However, outside elements do not solely define individual’s course of action because one has the freedom to choose what they will. For example, people may be tied to a religious background and are obligated to practice that religion, but they have the free will to choose whether or not they believe in it. Decisions originate from personal beliefs and morals. Because there isn’t a universal set of morals that everyone should live …show more content…
Free will must exist; otherwise, humans would simply be “puppets of their genetic makeup” (Harris 10 ). If free will doesn’t exist, what would be the purpose of existence? One cannot blame their DNA for the choices they make because it is irrational and unreasonable. “My DNA made me do it” does not justify rape, murder, or other crimes. This excuse allows people to avoid their obligations and reality when they should be held responsible for their actions. The existence of free will is what separates the human race from animals. Without it, how different would humans be from animals?
In conclusion, free will exists, contrary to Harris’s beliefs. To deny the existence of free will is in itself an act of free will. External and internal influences may affect our decisions, but ultimately, humans possess the free will to rationalize their thoughts and control their behaviors. Free will allows for the progression of humanity and prevents us from being slaves of