What is free will according to compatibilism?
Rachel Ellis
Published Mar 12, 2026
What is free will according to compatibilism?
Compatibilists often define an instance of “free will” as one in which the agent had freedom to act according to their own motivation. That is, the agent was not coerced or restrained. This definition of free will does not rely on the truth or falsity of causal determinism.
What is the philosophical definition of compatibilism?
Compatibilism. Soft determinism (or compatibilism) is the position or view that causal determinism is true, but we still act as free, morally responsible agents when, in the absence of external constraints, our actions are caused by our desires.
What is the definition of free will in philosophy?
free will, in humans, the power or capacity to choose among alternatives or to act in certain situations independently of natural, social, or divine restraints. A prominent feature of existentialism is the concept of a radical, perpetual, and frequently agonizing freedom of choice.
Does indeterminism explain free will?
A substantial body of the free will debate is about the relationship between free will and determinism in science. In fact, indeterminism has no place at all in an understanding of human free will. Indeterminism is the false presupposition of the free will debate.
Should we believe in free will?
Believing in free will helps people exert control over their actions. This is particularly important in helping people make better decisions and behave more virtuously. So, not only is there a value to believing in free will, but those beliefs have profound effects on our thoughts and behaviors.
What is free will simple terms?
free will. noun. Definition of free will (Entry 2 of 2) 1 : voluntary choice or decision I do this of my own free will. 2 : freedom of humans to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or by divine intervention.
What are examples of free will?
Free will is the idea that we are able to have some choice in how we act and assumes that we are free to choose our behavior, in other words we are self determined. For example, people can make a free choice as to whether to commit a crime or not (unless they are a child or they are insane).