The Possibility of Free Will

Do we have free will? This is a question that has puzzled philosophers and theologians for centuries, and has only become more complex with recent advances in neuroscience and genetics. Julian Baggini blends philosophy, neuroscience, sociology and cognitive science, and draws on scientific research and fascinating encounters with expert witnesses – including artists, addicts, political dissidents, geneticists and neuroscientists – to bring the issues raised by the possibilities and denials of free will vividly to life. Contemporary thinking tells us that free will is an illusion, and Baggini challenges this position, providing instead a new, more positive understanding of our sense of personal freedom, a freedom worth having.

Speaker biography:

Julian Baggini is Founding Editor of The Philosopher’s Magazine. His books include Welcome to Everytown: A Journey into the English Mind, What’s It All About?: Philosophy and the Meaning of Life, the bestselling The Pig that Wants to be Eaten, Do they Think You’re Stupid?, The Ego Trick and The Virtues of the Table.

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