The Nathan Jacobs Podcast Has Science Disproved Free Will? | A Conversation With James Joiner
Jan 8, 2026
Dr. James Joiner, a philosopher specializing in consciousness and free will, delves into the heated debate on whether science disproves free will. He critiques popular determinist narratives and dissects studies like Libet's to expose their methodological flaws. Joiner argues for the persistence of libertarian freedom against reductionism and discusses how belief in free will impacts moral behavior. By exploring historical roots and contrasting types of freedom, both he and Dr. Jacobs highlight the importance of aligning our will with truth and virtue.
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Multiple Layers Challenge Scientism
- Recognizing multiple layers (deterministic and indeterminate) echoes Kant’s noumena/phenomena split.
- Science’s causal framing may reflect cognitive habits, not the full metaphysical story.
Libet Shows Precursors, Not Proof Of No Will
- Libet’s readiness potential appears before conscious awareness, but that only shows neural precursors, not decisive veto failure.
- Timing evidence alone doesn't prove conscious decisions are mere epiphenomena.
Picking Versus Choosing Matters
- Libet-type tests study trivial motor picks, not deliberative choosings, so they overgeneralize.
- Readiness potentials can be vetoed and sometimes occur without actions, supporting a "free won't" role.
