RAW Thoughts
Here is a nice Robert Anton Wilson quote.
A very brief explanation of why “free will” is a contradiction in terms.
Brian Edwards recently expressed his innate laziness by rehashing his views on determinism. He cites the fact that he is a “hard determinist” as support for his position on crime and punishment. Basically, because a combination of genetics and environment entirely determine a person’s actions, it makes no sense to punish them.
While I appreciate Dr Edwards’ sentiments, I take issue with various points and turns of phrase.
So, rather than removing personal responsibility from the picture, the naturalistic worldview shows that holding people accountable is actually an essential part of the chain of causation that can shape good behavior. Furthermore, naturalism makes us more likely to be compassionate and effective in how we hold people accountable, since as we’ve seen it undercuts [...]
“Leadership. Leadership. Personal responsibility. Family values. Leadership. Decency. Fairness. Leadership.” Belief in free will is not merely an abstract idiocy. It has concrete and idiotic practical applications. For example, last night I was talking to someone who likes John Key and National’s emphasis on “personal responsibility”. It was implied (or explicitly stated – one of [...]