Subscribe now

Without free will, what do our choices mean?

See more: An illustrated version of this article will be published within the next two weeks on our CultureLab books and arts blog

In Free Will, Sam Harris dismantles the idea, but argues that our decisions still matter – a refreshing antidote to the nihilism the debate tends to produce

By Graham Lawton

14 March 2012

FOR such a big topic this is an awfully short book. But don’t blame neuroscientist Sam Harris for being brief. He had no choice.

In a brisk 66 pages Harris explains why we don’t have free will, points out why that doesn’t matter as much as it might appear to – and then simply stops in order to hammer home his point.

Free will touches everything we value – law, politics, relationships, morality and more. And yet it is an illusion. We either live in a deterministic universe where the future is set, or an indeterminate one where thoughts and actions…

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

More from New Scientist

Explore the latest news, articles and features

Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop