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ryan g's picture

Hmmm..

I don't know much about computers, but recently I have been tinkering around, trying to learn some basic computer programming.  Computers have the ability to distinguish between two conditions yes/no, on/off, binary language 100110.  From only that ability, they are able to complete uber-complex tasks based on if-then statements.   

Our neurons work with electrical signals as well.  If I don't know anything about computers, then I sure as heck don't know anything about neurons, so I can't speak with any authority as to mechnisms here... but my point is that one could imagine that a neurological "computer" that communicates using electrical signals and is constantly receiving new inputs and reforming new connections based on this input could give the illusion of what we call free will.  Maybe our brains are just acting on complex algorithms that are not only set up already, but changing all the time based on new inputs.  

Based on this definition of free will, the two previously mentioned stories may take on a different degree of usefulness.  I fully acknowledge that this is only one definition of free will, and not a particularly solid presentation of it at that, but I accept no responsibility.  My genes made me do it...

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