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
This source is used as supports evidence across 2 linked claims and 4 related evidence hubs. Its citation record is marked verified; that verifies the source trail, not the truth of any linked claim.
Summary
The original Libet readiness-potential experiments showing brain activity preceding conscious awareness of intention by ~350 ms.
How this source is used on the map
The single study most often cited as evidence against libertarian free will. Almost every later debate is downstream of it.
Citation record
- Authors
- Benjamin Libet, Curtis A. Gleason, et al.
- Year
- 1983
- Publication
- Brain, 106(3), 623–642
- Source type
- Study
- Map role
- supports
- Credibility level
- primary
- Citation status
- Verified
- DOI
- 10.1093/brain/106.3.623
- PubMed
- Recorded
- Not recorded
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.
Related research reports
Related sources
The default canonical reference for what compatibilism actually claims, against which most popular versions are pitched.
Useful for separating physical determinism (a contested empirical claim) from determinism in the popular sense.
Use this as the conceptual guardrail for destiny and 'it was meant to be' claims. It separates fatalism from causal determinism, which popular spirituality often blends together.
Establishes the philosophical landscape any modern empirical claim about free will is sitting inside.
Major reinterpretation of Libet — important counterweight to popular 'neuroscience disproves free will' framing.