The Philosophy of Free Will
Vocabulary
Reach each word out loud.
ponder
/ˈpɒn dər/
verb
to think deeply, carefully about something
Example:
I have always pondered the idea of visiting another planet.
morality
/məˈræl ɪ ti/
noun
a system of values; principles used to distinguish right from wrong
Example:
My morality does not allow me to steal from anyone.
illusion
/ɪˈlu ʒən/
noun
a deceiving thing that gives a false perception of reality
Example:
I thought all of the buildings were upside down in this image, then I realized it's just an illusion.
determinism
/dɪˈtɜr məˌnɪz əm/
noun
the belief that all events (including human choices) have a cause
Example:
Believers of determinism say that it is impossible to truly have free will.
autonomy
/ɔˈtɒn ə mi/
noun
freedom from external control or influence; controlling one's own actions and decisions
Example:
I love my new job because I have complete autonomy over my daily schedule.
Story
Read the story out loud or play the audio and follow along.
Audio generated by AI
The Philosophy of Free Will
There is a question that enters my mind from time to time, and it craves an answer. Are my choices truly mine? When I decide to drink coffee instead of tea, is that a free decision, or the product of my habits, biology, and environment?
Philosophers have debated this question for centuries. Determinists argue that every action has a cause, like dominoes falling in sequence. The domino at the end of the line was never given a choice. Once that first domino falls, the last in line simply waits its turn. If that’s true, then free will may only be an illusion.
Others believe humans do have autonomy, even if our decisions are influenced by outside forces. They argue that responsibility requires freedom; without it, concepts like morality or justice lose meaning.
Personally, I live in the tension between these two views. Sometimes I feel in control, other times I sense I’m carried by forces I don’t fully understand. Maybe free will is not absolute, but partial — a dance between freedom and necessity.
A parting question for you to ponder: was it your choice to come here today and read this story or were you simply next in line?
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Written by:
Thomas
Lesson updated:
6 de novembro de 2025