The Philosophy of Determinism by Baron Paul Henri d'Holbach

A set of vocabulary-focused flashcards based on the philosophical ideas presented by Baron Paul Henri d'Holbach regarding determinism, free will, and the nature of human choice.

Determinism

The philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are determined by preceding events in accordance with the natural laws.

Free Will

The ability to choose between different possible courses of action unimpeded.

Modus Tollens

A valid form of argument in logic that follows the structure: If A, then B; Not B, therefore Not A.

Law of Choice

The principle that individuals will choose the option they perceive as the best among alternatives.

Causal Determination

The idea that every event or action is the result of preceding causes.

Baron Paul Henri d'Holbach

An 18th-century philosopher known for his argument against free will, asserting that all choices are determined by motives.

The Science Argument

d'Holbach's assertion that everything, including the mind, is subject to the physical laws of nature.

Nature vs. Nurture

The debate regarding the relative importance of heredity and environment in shaping an individual.

Law of the Most Powerful Desire

The concept that people act according to the desire that appears most compelling among their choices.

Heredity

The genetic transmission of characteristics from parents to offspring.