Paper 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 11

Paper 2 - Essay Example On the other hand, compatibilism or soft determinism does not treat freedom and responsibility in isolation. Our actions are determined by the causes we take, and we could be held morally responsible for them. External events such as culture or genetics come into play, but the choice a person makes determine the actions. Therefore, a person should make choices that are consistent with his or her choices in order to become free. According to Frankfurt we have the inherent ability to use our will that enables us to have certain desires and motives. Having the ultimate will helps us to make choices, and that is where our freedom starts. Our choices are based on preconceived thoughts that differ from one person to another. He proposes the idea of second order of desires in human beings. We do not have the same abilities to pursue freedom with animals because they utilize first order desires where they may choose to engage in an activity or leave it altogether. Our freedom emanates from the reflective self-evaluation sessions inspired by second-order desires. The structure of a person is made by the capability to use of will to do the things he or she wants (Frankfurt 415). We are complete as human beings because if the innate capability to act out of our volitions due to second order desires. Frankfurt explains that there some of us who share the characteristics of first order desires and desires of the second orders. The characteristics render us free though our influence may be restricted to a particular extent. People who assumes or utilizes first and second order desires are called wanton. Wanton entails adults, nonhumans, and young children who do have the volition to do what they want. We get ample chances to act the way we feel without resulting into any form of conflict. We have the ultimate choice of acting rationally and deliberately irrespective of whether we have first or second order desires. However, we tend to ignore our strongest inclinations