Unwilling: The Neuroscience Against Free Will

Bry Willis shares "Unwilling: The Neuroscience Against Free Will." He explores the argument that our biology undermines our sense of autonomous choice. The author contends that factors beyond our conscious control, such as genetics, hormones, and environmental influences, significantly shape our preferences and decisions. Neuroscientific evidence, including the manipulation of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and the effects of hormones like oxytocin and testosterone on moral judgement, is presented to support this view. Philosophical concepts like Galen Strawson's causa sui argument are invoked to question the basis of moral responsibility if free will is an illusion. The piece concludes by suggesting a need to reconsider our understanding of agency and responsibility in light of these biological constraints, even challenging compatibilist perspectives.