EVALUATION

• WHAT ARE THE STRENGTHS OF DETERMINISM/ WEAKNESSES OF FREE WILL?

  • psychology as a science
  • real world application
• WHAT ARE THE WEAKNESSES OF DETERMINISM/ STRENGTHS OF FREE WILL?

  real world application
• PSYCHOLOGY AS A SCIENCE EXPLANATION?

  • determinism is consistent with aims of science
  • psychology has gained scientific status
  • taking a determinist view is useful to increase credibility and reputation
• REAL WORLD APPLICATION ARGUMENT (STRENGTH FOR DETERMINISM/ WEAKNESS FOR FREE WILL)?

  • deterministic view has positive implications for mental health
  • scientific research investigating cause and effect leads to the development of effective treatments for disorders
  • e.g. investigation into cause of phobias lead to the production of systematic desensitisation
• REAL WORLD APPLICATION ARGUMENT (STRENGTH OF FREE WILL/ WEAKNESS OF DETERMINISM)?

  • deterministic view has problematic implications for legal system
  • inconsistent with the way the system works
  • raises important moral debates
  • e.g. should some murderers not be held accountable for their actions?