Choice, Compulsion, Consequences . Doubting Free Will and Embracing Determinism

While most of us are culturally steeped in the notion of free will, there are many reasons to doubt it exists. The aim of this brief book is to face those doubts squarely, consider routes out of the muddle, and find firmer ground. The discussion ranges from theology, the sciences, and everyday experience, to philosophy and the law. On the way, it explores, extends and connects ideas that are otherwise mostly scattered across disciplines. This breadth will engage readers who are generally curious about the issue, including the implications of determinism for enforcing social order, enjoying meaning in life, and securing a healthy polity. Uniquely, the book closes with a broad case for embracing determinism.

Judith Herzfeld writes from her decades of experience in interdisciplinary teaching and research at Brandeis University, Harvard Medical School and Amherst College.