Socrates Cafe: Determinism vs Free Will

Please join us this Sunday as we explore the topic of free will, determinism and whether free will can be reconciled with modern scientific understanding and causality. Please note Saz is unavailable and this session will be moderated by Vit and Glenn.

We will meet at the CAPTAIN MELVILLE, 34 Franklin St in Melbourne CBD, at 2.00pm for 2.15pm start sharp.

There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background; all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared have your own assumptions challenged!

Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve merely as a springboard towards a deeper discussion in waters unknown...

Some points and questions to consider before the event:

• Do we have complete autonomy over our actions, or are we bound by natural factors?
• Do we live in a deterministic world?
• What are the arguments for free will?
• What is the purpose of subjective consciousness?
• What is our purpose, if free will does not exist?
• If free will does exist, are animals also able to exercise it?
• What suggestions do recent experiments in quantum physics have on free will, such as the double slit experiment?
• What is the relationship between morality and free will?
• Does the belief in free will give meaning to our lives, or can meaning be found in a deterministic universe?
• What is the purpose of free will in Western religious thought?
• What do Eastern religions and spiritual schools say about free will?

Hope to see you there!