Free will vs determinism: contribution of Ockham
Keywords:
Free will, Determinism, Repent, Ockham, PeterAbstract
The discussion of free will and determinism is one of the most prominent topics in philosophy, with a long history of debate. Numerous philosophers and theologians have explored this topic from various ideological perspectives, resulting in diverse, often conflicting, interpretations. This discussion resonates with many individuals, as they evaluate their behaviors through these philosophical lenses. In theology, complexities arise due to the necessity for theologians to reconcile their inquiries with their beliefs. According to Christian theology, God is omniscient and has foreknowledge of all human actions. While the concept of free will is defined in various ways, theologians struggle to provide a thorough investigation because of the complexities inherent in the concepts of omniscience and free will. However, William of Ockham, a radical theologian, approached this topic with his logical judgment, offering a significant contribution to the discourse on free will and determinism in Christian theology. His response to Aristotelian teachings on fatalism and future contingents established a stronger foundation for understanding these concepts. In this research, I examine the medieval philosophical views on free will and determinism and how Ockham addressed their contradictions.
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