Sheldon, K. M. (2024).
American Psychologist, 79(7), 928–941.
Abstract
Herein, I characterize free will (FW) is an evolved functional capacity within the mature human mind, which provides us with numerous adaptive benefits. The FW capacity was selected for because it enables us to respond effectively to momentary contingencies, via on-the-spot deliberation. But FW also extricates us from the present moment, enabling us to generate and decide between imagined long-term futures. Based upon a compatibilist philosophical definition of FW, I present a creative process model of how the FW capacity works, the goal breakthrough model. I show that the goal breakthrough model is consistent with extant neuroscientific research on the brain networks involved in creative cognition and choice. I also show that (a) exercising one’s FW is a basic psychological need, as evidenced by the fact that thwarting peoples’ autonomy can be harmful, and that (b) the FW process is influenced by peoples’ broad goals and narrative identities, providing a way for we conscious people to causally affect our lives and the world. Finally, I show how this framework integrates recent arguments that FW may be a uniquely human adaptation, ranging from neuroscience and cognitive to personality, social, and cultural perspectives.
Public Significance Statement
This article argues that free will, properly understood, is an evolved capacity within the human mind. Also, it is partially commanded by conscious processes. This gives humans direct efficacy in the operation of their minds and their lives.
Here are some thoughts:
This article is important to practicing psychology in the context of providing psychotherapy services for several key reasons. It presents free will as an evolved functional capacity of the human mind, rather than an abstract philosophical concept, giving therapists a concrete way to understand and work with clients' decision-making processes. The goal breakthrough model provides a framework for understanding how people generate and choose between potential futures, which therapists can use to help clients explore options and make decisions aligned with their values and long-term goals.
The emphasis on exercising free will as a basic psychological need underscores the importance of supporting client autonomy in therapy and helping clients develop a sense of agency in their lives. By linking free will to broader goals and narrative identities, the text offers valuable insights for therapists working to help clients develop coherent life stories and make choices consistent with their sense of self.
The presentation of free will as partially under conscious control empowers clients to actively shape their lives, which can be motivating and hopeful for those struggling with feelings of helplessness or lack of control. The integration of neuroscience, cognitive, personality, social, and cultural perspectives provides a holistic view of free will, informing more comprehensive and effective therapeutic approaches.
Finally, the creative process model of free will aligns with existing research on brain networks involved in creative cognition and choice, lending scientific credibility to therapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing decision-making skills.
Overall, this framework offers therapists a scientifically-informed, empowering way to conceptualize and work with clients' ability to make choices and direct their lives, which is fundamental to many therapeutic goals and processes.
