Free Will Responsibility and Crime

In his book philosopher and law professor Ken Levy explains why he agrees with most people but not with most other philosophers about free will and responsibility. Most people believe that we have both â that is that our choices decisions and actions are neither determined nor undetermined but rather fully self-determined. By contrast most philosophers understand just how difficult it is to defend this metaphysical libertarian position. So they tend to opt for two other theories: responsibility skepticism (which denies the very possibility of free will and responsibility) and compatibilism (which reduces free will and responsibility to properties that are compatible with determinism). In opposition to both of these theories Levy explains how free will and responsibility are indeed metaphysically possible. But he also cautions against the dogma that metaphysical libertarianism is actually true a widespread belief that continues to cause serious social political and legal harms. Levyâs book presents a crisp tight historically informed discussion with fresh clarity insight and originality. It will become one of the definitive resources for students academics and general readers in this critical intersection among metaphysics ethics and criminal law. Key features: Presents a unique qualified defense of metaphysical libertarianism the idea that our choices decisions and actions can be fully self-determined. Written clearly accessibly and with minimal jargon â rare for a book on the very difficult issues of free will and responsibility. Seamlessly connects philosophical legal psychological and political issues. Will be provocative and insightful for professional philosophers students and non-philosophers. . Language: English