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Philosophical discussions on moral agency often revolve around the capacity for reason and the ability to form self-interested judgments. While most philosophers argue that only rational beings possess the necessary attributes to be moral agents, questions arise concerning those with limited rationality, such as individuals with mild mental disabilities or infants[1]. This essay delves into the intricate relationship between moral agency, free will, and determinism, drawing insights from notable philosophers like Immanuel Kant and examining the implications of moral determinism.
Determinists posit that all human actions result from antecedent causes, challenging the concept of free will and asserting that individuals lack genuine control over their actions.
Immanuel Kant, a prominent figure in philosophy, contemplates the paradoxical nature of choice. Whether our noumenal self possesses the capacity to choose or not, Kant argues that we are compelled to believe in the illusion of free choice when making decisions[2].
However, this acknowledgment of apparent free will does not imply control over the consequences of our actions.
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Indeterminists argue that even if a 'cause' leads to an indeterminate array of possible 'effects,' it does not necessarily entail a freely chosen outcome. Instead, they propose that chance genetics, experiences, and circumstances play a significant role in shaping the consequences[3]. In Kantian philosophy, accepting this indeterminacy requires an act of faith in a yet-to-be-known a priori source or something immaterial.
Without a foundational source for free agency, essential social concepts like justice could be undermined.
The intertwining of responsibility and freedom of choice forms the bedrock of civilization and human values. Kant's philosophy prompts us to consider an a priori fundamental source for free agency, suggesting that civilization and moral values would crumble without this metaphysical anchor.
An illuminating comparison can be drawn between the idea of moral agency and the legal concept of mens rea, which translates to "guilty mind." In legal terms, individuals are held responsible for their actions as long as they are cognizant of what they are doing, and their choices are deliberate. This legal perspective aligns with the essence of moral agency, where the ability to make informed and intentional choices forms the basis of accountability.
Some theorists reject attempts to assess mental states and instead embrace the doctrine of strict liability, advocating legal responsibility without considering capacity. A parallel can be drawn between this legal standpoint and the stance of moral determinists, who might similarly discard the nuanced evaluation of choices. Renowned psychologist Albert Bandura notes that moral agents may selectively disengage from moral considerations when confronting their own inhumane conduct[4].
In conclusion, the intricate interplay between moral agency, free will, and determinism is a perennial topic in philosophical discourse. While determinism challenges the notion of free will, Kant's philosophical insights underscore the importance of faith in a foundational source for free agency. The comparison between moral agency and legal doctrines highlights the fundamental role of intentional choices in both ethical and legal realms. As we navigate the complexities of moral determinism, the challenge remains to reconcile individual accountability with the intricate web of causation that shapes human actions.
The Nexus of Free Will: Unraveling Moral Agency in Philosophy. (2016, Nov 23). Retrieved from https://studymoose.com/moral-agency-essay
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