The problem of free will is child's play

Abstract I argue that the essence of ‘free will’ is control, the ability to do otherwise and that this ability is an acquired skill: We can and do see people acquire it, as for example small children learn to play and to do all the other things that human agents characteristically do.

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Publication Details

Journal
Philosophical Investigations
Published
2026-02-13
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1111/phin.70019
Primary Topic
Free Will and Agency
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

The problem of free will is child's play

Sophie‐Grace Chappell
Philosophical Investigations
Free Will and Agency
article

The problem of free will is child's play

Sophie‐Grace Chappell
article en

Abstract

Abstract I argue that the essence of ‘free will’ is control, the ability to do otherwise and that this ability is an acquired skill: We can and do see people acquire it, as for example small children learn to play and to do all the other things that human agents characteristically do.

Philosophical InvestigationsVol. 49(2)
University of Dundee (GB)
Openalex Percentile: Top 58%
Free Will and Agency
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The problem of free will is child's play — Sophie‐Grace Chappell · Philosophical Investigations (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS