Free Will and Moral Responsibility

The chapter delves into a philosophical subject of profound significance both for individual self-perception and for humanity at large. It begins with the premise that our collective understanding of morality and accountability presupposes the existence of free will—a concept that also underpins our social and legal institutions, especially with regard to punitive measures for lawbreakers. Yet, the existence of free will is subject to debate. If free will is illusory, can individuals still be held morally accountable for their actions, regardless of the severity of their crimes? Alternatively, is it conceivable to attribute moral responsibility to individuals for their actions, whether commendable or condemnable, in the absence of free will?