Evaluation

• +Biological determinism has had hugely useful applications:

  -development of treatments like SSRI's which block the re uptake off serotonin in the synapse which increases mood and alleviates depression symptoms.
• +Determinism has research support:

  -Libert et al recorded EEG activity in motor areas of the brain before the person had a conscious awareness to move their finger.

  -This suggests acts of free will based on conscious decisions are actually predetermined in the brain before they are aware.
• +Determinism is incompatible with notations of criminal responsibility:

  -criminals are held personally and morally accountable for actions.

  -Viewing crime as a behaviour committed freely by the individual as a result of rational choice as it is consciously chosen.