Abstract
In this chapter I discuss freedom in general and freedom of the will in particular, and the difference and relation between egotism and altruism. The issue of the existence or not of free will has a long history and is still alive. It is of central importance in discussions of ethics, morality, punishment, education and justice. What is benevolence without free will? If someone cannot choose his or her conduct, what is the basis for punishment? Can freedom be learned, in education, teaching and experience? If there is no free will, do we need God all the more, or does, the other way around, religion require free will?
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© 2012 Bart Nooteboom
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Nooteboom, B. (2012). Free Will?. In: Beyond Humanism. Palgrave Macmillan, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230371019_4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9780230371019_4
Publisher Name: Palgrave Macmillan, London
Print ISBN: 978-1-349-35033-9
Online ISBN: 978-0-230-37101-9
eBook Packages: Palgrave Religion & Philosophy CollectionPhilosophy and Religion (R0)