A Libertarian Response to Dennett and Harris on Free Will

Abstract

This article critically examines central arguments made in Sam Harris’ Free Will as well as key aspects of Daniel Dennett’s compatibilist conception of free will. I argue that while Dennett makes thoughtful replies to Harris’ critique of compatibilism, his compatibilism continues to be plagued by critical points raised by Bruce Waller. Additionally, I argue that Harris’ rejection of the libertarian view of free will is ill-informed and I explain the basics of Robert Kane’s libertarian view, arguing that it can be defended against points raised by both Dennett and Harris.

Keywords

• Free Will
• Libertarianism
• Compatibilism
• Daniel Dennett
• Sam Harris