Nagel: Introduction to Philosophy – Part 2: Free Will

Thomas Nagel – A Very Short Introduction to Philosophy | Part 2: Free Will

This passage talks about how people make choices and take responsibility for their actions. It uses a story about choosing between a peach and a chocolate cake. The phrase "I could have had a peach instead" is an important part of the discussion about whether we already have set choices or if we can still decide things at the last moment.

The exploration starts by thinking about determinism, which is the idea that outside forces can control all of our actions. This idea makes me think about how determinism might affect our ability to take responsibility for our actions. If all choices are already decided, the writer asks important questions about whether it is fair to blame people for what they do.

To balance out the idea that everything is predetermined, another way of thinking is offered. This idea says that being responsible depends on certain reasons, even if they are part of a system where things are predetermined. The author does not fully believe the viewpoint and is unsure about the idea that all actions are already decided. This doubt sets the stage for a close look at how determinism affects human choices and actions.

The passage ends by asking important questions about what it means when someone says, "I could have chosen a peach instead." It makes readers think about whether the idea of making choices is just a thought or a belief. The author explores how people make choices if they are free to do so, and whether they can be held responsible for their actions. They do not come to clear conclusions about these deep philosophical questions.

It helps readers go through deep thinking about determinism and free will. The repeated topic of choice and the fact that there is no clear answer make the exploration more interesting. It shows that there is an ongoing debate and uncertainty about these deep philosophical questions.

I do not have an idea if people have a destiny. It is so unclear if we live by our destiny or if we live by creating our destiny with the choices we make. This is so deep to me. This is like believing in God or not. If you believe that there is a God, then a destiny is already written for you. At that point, most people believe that even if there is a destiny you have, it is still up to you to make a wonderful life or the opposite.