Time of conscious intention to act in relation to onset of cerebral activity (readiness-potential): The unconscious initiation of a freely voluntary act
Benjamin Libet, Curtis A. Gleason, et al. · 1983 · Brain, 106(3), 623–642
Summary
The original Libet readiness-potential experiments showing brain activity preceding conscious awareness of intention by ~350 ms.
Why it matters here
The single study most often cited as evidence against libertarian free will. Almost every later debate is downstream of it.
Linked claims
Classical physics is deterministic; quantum mechanics complicates the picture; many-worlds and Bohmian readings restore determinism.
The strong claim that decisions are not fully determined by prior physical causes. Philosophically defended; no demonstrated mechanism.
Related evidence hubs
Physics-adjacent worldviews — block universe, many-worlds, simulation, free will.
Mind–brain relation, qualia, intentionality.
Determinism, free will, destiny.
Block universe, presentism, eternalism, emergent time.