Kanye West: The Choices and Free Will

“When you hear about slavery for 400 years — for 400 years? That sounds like a choice. Like, you were there for 400 years and it's all of y'all? It's like we're mentally imprisoned.”

— Kanye West, May 1, 2018 on TMZ Live

“to [sic] make myself clear. Of course I know that slaves did not get shackled and put on a boat by free will”

— Kanye West, May 1, 2018 on Twitter

There is a lot to unpack here, but whatever you think of Kanye's statements, they rest on a specific conception of “choice” and “free will”. The politics around these comments are complicated, and I want you to put them to the side for the moment. Instead, in this paper, you will give an overview of the philosophical discussion around free will and then argue that you do, or do not, possess free will.

In the first paragraph, introduce the issue and state your thesis, all in four sentences or less. Space is limited, so you'll have to get to the point quickly!

In the second paragraph, present an argument that we have free will. You don't necessarily have to agree, but you should make the strongest possible case that we have free will. In doing so, define what you mean when speaking of “free will”.

In the third paragraph, present an argument that we do not have free will. You might not agree, but I want you to present the argument as carefully as you can. If the argument rests on a different analysis of “free will” than the preceding paragraph, be explicit about the difference.

In the fourth paragraph, argue that you do or do not have free will. In the process, respond to the opposing argument you gave in one of the above paragraphs.

In the fifth paragraph, provide a brief conclusion.

In making your arguments, it will be useful to refer to lecture notes, online slides, and the assigned reading on iLearn: "The Powers of Rational Beings: Freedom of the Will" by Peter Van Inwagen.

Paper specifications:

Your essay should be 900-1,200 words (about 3-4 pages double-spaced).

Late papers will be penalized 1/2 point per day, rounded up. Papers will not be accepted after May 20.

The file format must be a pdf or a word doc. Pages files and Google doc files will not be accepted.

Include in-text citations and a works cited page using MLA or APA formatting.

Do not use outside sources.

Once you've submitted your paper, review it to make sure you have uploaded the correct file.