Libertarianism (Free Will)
The position that humans possess libertarian free will—the ability to act contrary to prior causes and determined outcomes. If determinism were true, free will would be impossible; therefore, determinism is false. Indeterminate agent causation allows genuine responsibility. Philosophers like Kant and Campbell defended libertarianism.
Real World
Kant's insistence that moral duty is only meaningful if humans can genuinely choose otherwise underpins libertarianism — the same logic used when courts treat premeditated crime as more culpable than impulsive action.
Exam Focus
Do not confuse libertarianism (free will) with political libertarianism; clarify the philosophical meaning immediately to avoid a common examiner-noted error.
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