which two perspectives in psychology emphasize free will over determinism

Daniel Parker

2 min read

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27-02-2025

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The debate between free will and determinism is a cornerstone of philosophical and psychological thought. Determinism posits that all actions are predetermined by prior causes, leaving no room for genuine choice. Conversely, free will suggests we have the capacity to make authentic, unconstrained decisions. While many psychological perspectives lean towards deterministic models, two stand out for their emphasis on free will: humanistic psychology and existential psychology.

Humanistic Psychology: The Power of Self-Actualization

Humanistic psychology, spearheaded by figures like Carl Rogers and Abraham Maslow, champions the inherent goodness and potential of individuals. This perspective significantly diverges from deterministic viewpoints by focusing on:

1. Self-Actualization: Humanistic psychologists believe humans are driven by an innate need for self-actualization – the realization of one's full potential. This journey necessitates conscious choices and personal responsibility, implying free will. Individuals actively shape their lives through their decisions, rather than being passively shaped by external forces.

2. Subjective Experience: Humanistic psychology places significant weight on subjective experience. It emphasizes the individual's unique perspective and interpretation of reality. Deterministic models often neglect this element, focusing instead on objective, measurable behaviors. By prioritizing individual experience, humanistic psychology implicitly acknowledges the power of personal choice and conscious decision-making.

3. Personal Growth and Choice: Humanistic therapy, a cornerstone of this approach, focuses on empowering individuals to make conscious choices and take responsibility for their lives. Techniques like client-centered therapy emphasize the client's capacity for self-direction and growth. This reflects a clear belief in the power of free will in shaping personal development.

Limitations of the Humanistic Approach

While influential, the humanistic perspective faces criticisms. Some argue its concepts are difficult to empirically test and may be overly optimistic about human nature. The emphasis on individual agency might downplay the impact of societal and environmental factors on behavior.

Existential Psychology: Facing Freedom and Responsibility

Existential psychology, influenced by thinkers like Viktor Frankl and Rollo May, also strongly emphasizes free will. It centers on the individual's unique experience of existence, highlighting:

1. Existence Precedes Essence: Unlike deterministic views that assume a pre-defined nature, existentialism suggests that existence comes before essence. We are born into the world without a predetermined purpose or identity. This freedom to create our own meaning and values underscores the importance of free will.

2. Responsibility and Choice: Existential psychology stresses the profound responsibility that accompanies this freedom. Individuals are not merely products of their environment or past experiences; they are active agents who must continually make choices and take responsibility for their actions. This inherent responsibility is a cornerstone of free will.

3. Angst and Meaning-Making: The freedom to choose can also lead to feelings of anxiety (angst) and uncertainty. However, existential psychologists see this as an opportunity for growth and self-discovery. The process of creating meaning in a meaningless universe requires conscious choices, reaffirming the centrality of free will.

Limitations of the Existential Approach

Similar to humanistic psychology, existentialism has faced criticisms. Some argue its focus on individual responsibility can be overly demanding and may neglect systemic factors influencing choices. The subjective nature of its concepts also makes empirical testing challenging.

Conclusion: The Ongoing Debate

Both humanistic and existential psychology offer compelling arguments for the significance of free will. While acknowledging the influence of external factors, these perspectives highlight the individual's capacity for conscious choice, personal responsibility, and self-determination. The debate between free will and determinism remains complex and nuanced, and these two perspectives offer valuable contributions to this ongoing discussion. Understanding these perspectives enriches our understanding of human behavior and the ongoing quest for meaning and purpose.