Catholic Morality Final Test Q1

Does Freedom make us happy? Please elaborate.

Yes: It brings happiness when we first experience independence (e.g., getting a driver’s license). No: Over time, freedom doesn’t always keep us happy once we get used to it.

(In other words) At first yes, since we first experience independence, but over time, freedom doesn’t make us as happy as before since we get used to it

Please give the modern and classical definitions of freedom. Please explain the differences between both. 

Modern: Doing whatever we want with our own will.
Classic: Choosing what is good and right.
Difference:
-Modern, unlimited choice.
-Classical, responsibility and choosing the good.

What things might diminish our responsibility for our actions? 

Lack of knowledge or fear. If you were held at gunpoint and forced to commit a crime, it’s not your fault.

If we commit an action that was intended or has unexpected results, we are ultimately unknowing, and our culpability is diminished.
Ex: Hitler Youth — kids taught false ideas, not fully aware of right or wrong.

Please explain behavioristic determinism. Please elaborate. 

The belief that our actions are shaped by our environment and past experiences, not by free choice.
Key Idea: We are products of our surroundings, not fully responsible for our behavior.

What three things suggest humans have free will? Please elaborate. 

1. Common Experience where we actually, genuinely, feel like we are making our own decisions. 

2. Observing Human Behavior, where, although we follow a set pattern like animals, we have variability that comes with this 

3. There is no morality without freedom. With no morality, there is no set of rules, and therefore no one must be blamed or praised for our actions  

Please explain how free will is a spiritual power. (It would benefit your explanation if you contrasted it with a bodily power) 

Free will is distinct from our emotions; it isn’t found somewhere in the body because it comes from our soul. As humans, we are capable of making conscious, deliberate choices rather than just reacting to emotions or physical desires.