Freewill has been a topic of discussion for millennia and lively debate continues to this very day. The definition we will use for this discussion is a variant of Libertarian freewill: the power to make decisions or perform actions independently of any prior event or state of the universe. The relevance of this fascinating topic cannot be overstated. The very nature of how we conceptualize ourselves, others, and humans, in sum, is strongly influenced by a "sense" of our being capable of “freely choosing” to think, feel, behave based solely on decisions “we make.” You were (re)introduced to the topic by way of a Crash Course Philosophy video in the first module. An additional video interview on the topic with neuroscientist Dr. Christof Koch can be found in the current Additional Materials folder. Referencing these videos and (any of the course) lectures, provide some perspectives that you have on the topic of freewill. Critically examine how you have established the views that you have on the topic. What has contributed to your perspectives? Finally, provide a few thoughts on how you might establish an accurate understanding about how and why you think, feel, and behave as do. How might analyzing where your brain has been and how it has been modified over the trajectory of your life play? For this post, you may reference one additional outside resource; however, you must still provide two substantive references to course materials (i.e., lectures and additional module materials). Please be certain that any outside resource is a principal source (i.e., do not reference another individual’s opinion, e.g., a blog on the topic). If you have any questions about the suitability of an outside resource, you are certainly welcome to check with me before you reference it.

The topic of freewill is indeed a fascinating one. As per the definition provided, freewill is the power to make decisions or perform actions independently of any prior event or state of the universe. This concept is deeply ingrained in our understanding of ourselves and others. We often perceive ourselves as beings capable of making free choices, and this perception shapes our interactions and relationships.

The Crash Course Philosophy video and the interview with neuroscientist Dr. Christof Koch provided valuable insights into the topic. The video emphasized the importance of freewill in our understanding of morality and responsibility. If our actions are not freely chosen, then it becomes difficult to hold individuals accountable for their actions. On the other hand, Dr. Koch's interview highlighted the role of the brain in decision-making processes. He suggested that our decisions might not be as free as we think they are, as they are influenced by our brain's structure and functioning.

My views on freewill have been shaped by these materials, as well as my personal experiences and observations. I believe that while we do have the ability to make choices, these choices are influenced by a variety of factors, including our past experiences, our environment, and our brain's functioning. This perspective is supported by Dr. Koch's argument that our brain plays a significant role in our decision-making processes.

To establish an accurate understanding of how and why I think, feel, and behave as I do, I would need to consider these factors. I would need to examine my past experiences and how they have shaped my thinking and behavior. I would also need to consider the role of my environment in shaping my perceptions and responses. Finally, I would need to consider the role of my brain in my decision-making processes. Analyzing where my brain has been and how it has been modified over the trajectory of my life would provide valuable insights into my thought processes and behavior.

In addition to the course materials, I would reference the work of Daniel Dennett, a prominent philosopher and cognitive scientist. Dennett's work on consciousness and freewill provides valuable insights into the topic. He argues that while our decisions are influenced by a variety of factors, we still have the ability to make choices and should be held accountable for these choices. This perspective aligns with my own views on the topic.