Self, Dignity, and the Brain: A Critical Reflection on Psychology, Free Will, and Law

The movements to understand the self, free will, and choice have gained new meaning through the rise of brain studies. Further explorations about intentions, reasons, and deception have re-examined the meaning of self and agency. However, a triangulated picture with other scientific evidence may make the picture clear. The aim will be to ponder free will, law and brain determinism. Since brain studies are emerging as an essential interdisciplinary domain engaging with law and psychology, it may be interesting to have some knowledge about the common-sense understanding of brain functioning and how it connects to the philosophical problems of knowledge of other minds, freedom of actions, purpose and the will. The conceptual errors and further debates speculated by legal theorists and social scientists in integrating law and neuroscience, which has empirical, practical and ethical implications, will be highlighted.