Tópicos (Nov 2013)

THE ABILITY TO DELIBERATE

  • Martin Seel

DOI
https://doi.org/10.21555/top.v36i1.129
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 36, no. 1
pp. 123 – 141

Abstract

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The paper argues that only in the sphere of deliberation does intentionality exist in the demanding sense of a kind of foresight and planning, memory and imagination that steps out into space and time. Furthermore, only in the sphere of deliberation can something like normativity exist, be it in a logical, moral or legal sense. For only those who can deliberate can have any reasons to believe what they believe and desire what they desire. Following these directions, a analysis of the determinations and indeterminations within the process of deliberation leads to a revised compatibilist understanding of human freedom.

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