ACT (Enhanced)ReadingHard
A philosopher writes: 'The concept of free will, often championed as the cornerstone of human dignity, is in fact an elaborate illusion. Every choice we make, every thought we entertain, is merely the inevitable outcome of prior physical causes and genetic predispositions, operating within a deterministic universe. To believe otherwise is to ignore the fundamental laws of nature.' Which of the following statements would most directly strengthen the philosopher's argument?
- AMany philosophical traditions, both ancient and modern, have debated the existence of free will for centuries.
- BSurveys indicate that the majority of people worldwide report a strong subjective feeling of having free will.
- CNeuroscience research demonstrates that brain activity related to a decision can be observed milliseconds before conscious awareness of that decision.
- DStudies show that individuals who believe in free will tend to be more motivated to achieve their goals.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Neuroscience research demonstrates that brain activity related to a decision can be observed milliseconds before conscious awareness of that decision.
The philosopher argues that free will is an 'illusion' and that choices are 'inevitable outcome of prior physical causes.' Neuroscience research showing brain activity *before* conscious awareness of a decision directly supports the idea that choices are predetermined by physical processes, thus strengthening the argument against free will.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The fact that free will has been debated doesn't strengthen the argument that it's an illusion; it merely states that its existence is a long-standing philosophical question.
- B. Subjective feelings of having free will do not provide objective evidence for its existence and, in fact, could be interpreted as part of the 'illusion' the philosopher describes, thus not strengthening the argument against it.
- D. This statement describes a *consequence* of believing in free will, not evidence for or against its existence, and therefore does not strengthen the argument that it's an illusion.
Strengthening an Argument
Providing additional evidence, reasoning, or examples that support the central claim or thesis of an argument, making it more convincing or valid.
- Introduces new information that directly backs the claim.
- Addresses potential weaknesses or counterarguments.
- Must be consistent with and logically extend the original argument.
Memory trick: To strengthen, add a brick; to weaken, find a crack quick.