I came up short…
Musing
The Question Unasked: A Reflection on Free Will, Responsibility, and Missed Opportunities
In the world of intellectual discourse, opportunities to engage with towering figures are both rare and invaluable. My recent encounter with Sam Harris, a prominent voice in the conversation about free will, consciousness, and morality, was one such moment that I had eagerly anticipated. Harris, known for his incisive analysis and willingness to tackle controversial topics, has profoundly influenced how many of us understand the human mind and its implications for society. I even solicited advice for questions from you, my audience here… still, I came up short.
However, in the aftermath of our discussion, I was left with a sense of regret. A crucial question went unasked, one that not only probes at the heart of Harris’s philosophy but also touches on the contentious political climate of our times. The question I neglected to ask, to my everlasting shame, was this: “Since we don’t have free will, and, for example, criminals are ultimately not to blame for their actions, why does he blame Trump for January 6th, if indeed it was a criminal insurrection?”
This question is not merely academic. It challenges us to reconcile the philosophical notion that free will is an illusion with the practical realities of moral and legal responsibility. Harris has persuasively argued that the traditional notion of free will is flawed and that understanding this is crucial for addressing ethical and societal challenges. Yet, the application of this understanding to specific individuals and events, especially those as politically charged as January 6th, is complex and nuanced.
Hypothetical Response: Reconciling Lack of Free Will with Moral Responsibility
While I cannot speak for Sam Harris, we can speculate on how he might respond to this question based on his extensive body of work. Harris might argue that acknowledging the absence of free will does not absolve individuals of responsibility for their actions. Instead, it necessitates a shift in how we perceive moral and legal accountability. In this view, blaming someone like Trump for his role in a controversial event doesn’t contradict the absence of free will; rather, it reflects a nuanced understanding of how influence, power, and societal structures play a role in shaping human behavior.
Harris might further argue that his critique of Trump — or any figure, for that matter — is based on the observable impact of their actions and words on society. From this perspective, holding public figures accountable is less about moral blame in the traditional sense and more about recognizing the practical implications of their influence. This approach allows for a form of ethical judgment that is compatible with the denial of free will, focusing on the consequences of actions rather than the illusory agency behind them.
The Importance of Asking Tough Questions
Reflecting on this missed opportunity, I’m reminded of the importance of challenging ourselves and our guests with difficult questions. These inquiries are not just academic exercises; they are essential for pushing the boundaries of our understanding and engaging with the complex realities of our world. They force us to confront the implications of our beliefs and to articulate how philosophical principles apply to the gritty details of real-life situations.
In missing the chance to ask Sam Harris this question, I recognize a broader lesson about the value of intellectual courage and the need for ongoing dialogue. Conversations with thinkers like Harris are not just opportunities for agreement or admiration but are platforms for rigorous debate and exploration of ideas.
Moving Forward
In the spirit of open inquiry and intellectual growth, let us not shy away from the tough questions. Whether discussing the nature of free will, the responsibility of public figures, or the myriad other challenges facing our society, let’s embrace the complexity and engage with the ideas and individuals that shape our world. For it is in these challenging conversations that we find the opportunity to expand our understanding and to navigate the intricate landscape of human thought and action.
As for the question unasked, it remains a poignant reminder of the ever-present need to dig deeper, to challenge our assumptions, and to explore the rich terrain of philosophical and ethical debate. And while I may regret the missed opportunity to pose this question to Sam Harris, it serves as a catalyst for further reflection and discussion — a discussion that I hope to continue with readers, viewers, and future guests alike. I want to be your voice and ask the questions you would want me to ask.
Have a M.A.G.I.C. week!
Brian
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