free will

• Which theory supports freewill?

  Humanism - humans choose what they do A person is responsible for their actions Behaviour is not predictable
• Freewill


  Humans can make choices about how to behave Behaviour is not determined by biological or external forces
• Support that free will exists

  The British Legal System is built on the notion of free will, we are accountable & responsible for our actions. Demand characteristics are proof that humans have conscious control over their behaviour.
• Strengths of freewill


  If individuals have freewill, the CJS can hold people responsible. If individuals have freewill, then people can change & therapy works.
• Weaknesses of freewill


  Mental health conditions challenge the idea that all behaviour is a choice & free will could make large parts of psychology redundant. Is freewill simply an illusion? - Libet's research demonstrated that behaviour is biologically determined
• Freewill summary


  Conscious control over actions/thoughts Humanism Advantages: People can change. Fits with how people like to see themselves. Disadvantages: Makes psychology pointless as there will be nothing concrete to find. People wouldn't choose to have depression. Freewill implies behaviour would be random - it isn't.