In this episode of Passion Struck with John R. Miles, I tackle one of the age-old questions debated by scientists, philosophers, theologians, and neuroscientists: does the concept of free will really exist, or is our life predetermined?
My aim for this episode is to spark curiosity in you and encourage debate and conversation on this topic.
Many examples seem to support the idea that our decisions and actions might depend on external influences beyond our awareness. Other counter-opinions insist on our complete independence from such powers, leaving us with total responsibility for free will over our actions.
John R. Miles
Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podcast Addict, Pocket Casts, Stitcher, Castbox, Google Podcasts, Listen Notes, Amazon Music, or on your favorite podcast platform. You can watch the interview on YouTube below.
Enjoy!
Does Free Will Exist, or Is Life Predestined?
Let’s examine quotes from two great historical scholars just to illustrate their differing views on the existence of free will.
– Stephen Hawking said, “I have noticed even people who claim everything is predestined, and that we can do nothing to change it, look before they cross the road.”
– Albert Einstein said, “Human beings, in their thinking, feeling and acting, are not free agents but are as causally bound as the stars in their motion.”
As these quotes demonstrate, the ongoing debate about the existence of free will undoubtedly continue for years to come. These differences in belief lead to many questions, such as: Which opinion is accurate for the existence of free will? Does our consciousness influence our choices? What are the implications of believing or not believing in free will? This episode addresses these and other affiliated questions related to the fundamental question does free will exist.
- The debate over the existence of a free will
- The curious case of Kenneth Parks
- Consciousness’s role in the existence of a free will
- The impact of determinism and predeterminism
- How biological and environmental influences affect free will
- How free will influences our daily choices
- Why the free will debate will undoubtedly continue
- Have any questions, comments, or stories you’d like to share with us? Drop us a line at [email protected]m!
- Connect with John R Miles on Twitter at @John_RMiles and Instagram at @John_R_Miles.
Questions For You And Your Friends Or Family Members To Discuss Free Will
- Do you believe in the existence of free will?
- How do the findings of Dr. Libet impact your belief in free will?
- How does our consciousness impact free will?
- What is the impact of determinism and predeterminism?
- What are the consequences of not believing in free will?
- How does the story of Kenneth Parks impact your belief in free will?
- How can you apply the episode to your life?
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Starter Packs
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Resources From The Show
Please note that some of the links on this page (books, movies, music, etc.) lead to affiliate programs for which The Passion Struck podcast receives compensation. It’s just one of the ways we keep the lights on around here. Thank you so much for being so supportive!
Purchase Victor Frankl’s Book Man’s Search for Meaning: https://amzn.to/3JkSkDN
- My interview with Scott Barry Kaufman and Jordyn Feingold: https://passionstruck.com/jordyn-feingold-scott-barry-kaufman-chose-growth/
- My solo episode about how your environment influences who you become: https://passionstruck.com/how-your-environment-influences-who-you-become/
- My solo episode on why your brain dictates your reality: https://passionstruck.com/why-your-brain-dictates-your-reality/
- My interview with Ayelet Fishbach, a professor at the Booth School of Business University of Chicago, on how to get it done, the science of motivation: https://passionstruck.com/ayelet-fishbach-get-it-done-find-the-fun-path/
- My interview with Astronaut Wendy Lawrence on why you must permit yourself to dream the dream: https://passionstruck.com/how-to-dream-the-dream-you-want/
- My interview with Katy Milkman, Ph.D. on how to create lasting behavior change: https://passionstruck.com/katy-milkman-behavior-change-for-good/
- My interview with Astronaut Chris Cassidy on the importance of being present in the moment: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/astronaut-chris-cassidy-on-the-importance-in-life/id1553279283?i=1000521263914
- My solo episode on why micro choices matter: https://passionstruck.com/why-your-micro-choices-determine-your-life/
About John R. Miles
John R. Miles is the CEO, and Founder of PASSION STRUCK®, the first of its kind company, focused on impacting real change by teaching people how to live Intentionally. He is on a mission to help people live a no-regrets life that exalts their victories and lets them know they matter in the world. For over two decades, he built his own career applying his research of passion-struck leadership, first becoming a Fortune 50 CIO and then a multi-industry CEO. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and author.
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