Author(s)

Zhao Sitian

Corresponding Author

Zhao Sitian

Abstract

The statement that ultimate responsibility is a mere illusion is so daunting that it stirred up a bitter quarrel among philosophers. I seek an alternative to free will being compatible with determinism to make responsibility possible regardless of the reluctance to admit it. The relationship between consciousness and ultimate responsibility can be explained by further understanding of free will and consciousness. If we carry out our actions consciously, we are ultimately responsible for our personal actions. In this essay, I briefly argue that consciousness can allow ultimate responsibility to persist against the assumption of determinism and thus is a suitable alternative to free will.

Keywords

Free Will, Determinism, Ultimate Responsibility, Consciousness, Philosophical Zombie