Compatibilism
Michael McKenna, D. Justin Coates · 2024 · Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Summary
Detailed reference on the compatibilist position — that free will is consistent with determinism — and its main objections.
Why it matters here
The default canonical reference for what compatibilism actually claims, against which most popular versions are pitched.
Linked claims
Free will, properly understood, is compatible with determinism. The dominant view among philosophers in PhilPapers surveys.
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.