The Role of Free Will in Atheist and Theist Beliefs

When discussing the concept of free will in relation to atheism and theism, it is important to clarify the distinct meanings and implications of these terms. Atheism, in its essence, does not negate the existence or non-existence of free will. It merely abstains from belief in gods. Conversely, the existence of free will in the context of theological beliefs is closely tied to the concept of divine omnipotence and omniscience.

The Atheist View on Free Will

For many atheists, the idea of free will is independent of the belief in gods. Atheism, as a lack of belief in gods, does not prescribe a specific view on whether free will exists or not. As long as the concept of free will is logically coherent and does not depend on religious presuppositions, it is a topic open for philosophical and scientific examination.

The Theistic Perspective on Free Will

However, in the context of theistic beliefs, particularly those involving an omnipotent and omniscient deity, the question of free will becomes more complex. The existence of such a deity, as often conceived in monotheistic religions, implies a level of control and foreknowledge that challenges the notion of free will.

Theological Determinism and Free Will

The concept of theological determinism suggests that the future is predetermined by the divine will. This belief often leads to the argument that if a deity knows the future, then free will is impossible, as human actions are already predetermined. Therefore, according to this view, any sense of responsibility or moral accountability for human actions loses its foundation.

Libertarian Free Will and Theological Determinism

A particularly stark version of this conflict arises from the concept of libertarian free will, which posits the ability to do otherwise, an option that is incompatible with any form of determinism, theistic or otherwise. If an omnipotent deity can ‘harden one’s heart’ and ensure that a person's actions align with the deity's will, then libertarian free will is indeed undermined. This issue is further complicated by the biblical portrayal of humans as puppets, subject to divine control.

Compatibilist Free Will

Compatibilist free will, on the other hand, suggests that free will is compatible with determinism. It focuses on the ability to act in accordance with one's own motivations. However, even from this perspective, the existence of an omnipotent deity that can 'harden one’s heart' to neutralize these motivations poses a significant challenge to the coherence of compatibilist free will. This raises the question of whether free will truly exists in a theistic universe where divine intervention can override human choices.

Defining Free Will

To address these philosophical discussions, it is essential to define what is meant by 'free will.' Libertarians argue for the ability to do otherwise, an option that is fundamentally incompatible with determinism. In contrast, compatibilists argue that one can be free provided their actions are in line with their own motivations, regardless of predetermined outcomes. Both perspectives present valid points but ultimately encounter significant difficulties when confronted with the omnipotent power of a theistic deity.

Given the complexities involved, the debate over free will in the context of atheism and theism remains an open and evolving question. It requires careful definitions and a deep understanding of both philosophical and religious doctrines to fully unpack the implications of each position.