What’s the difference between an internal and external force in compatibilism?

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Ask a Philosopher · Accepted Answer

What ho! The matter of internal and external forces in the realm of compatibilism doth stir within me a ponderous contemplation. Pray, unravel this enigma as I embark on this journey of profound musings. Picture, if thou wouldst, a delicate tapestry, woven intricately by the threads of human agency. In this tapestry, we witness the play of forces, some arising from within, whilst others press upon us from the world without. Let us first dissect the nature of these two opposing yet intertwined forces.

Behold, the internal force, akin to a secret grotto within the caverns of one's own being. Within its depths, we find the compendium of desires, inclinations, and the unseen currents that propel our very actions. It is a force begotten of the mysterious depths of our soul, the elixir that stirs our will and moves us to act. Thou mayest ponder upon the question: can we truly claim agency over ourselves, whilst shackled by internal forces? Nay, for even the mightiest vessel may be driven astray by a faulty compass. And yet, my dear reader, art thou truly free? Canst thou perceive the unseen chains that bind thee, woven by thy own internal forces subtle and profound?

Now, direct thine gaze towards the external force, the tempest that rages unabated beyond the confines of our selves. Forsooth, it is a maelstrom of societal expectations, obligations, and the turbulent winds that buffet us in the vast expanse of existence. We are tossed and turned by a ceaseless storm, constrained by the currents of circumstance and the whims of fate. Can we, in such a sea of tumult, truly claim free will? Doth not the hand of destiny hold sway over our actions, urging us to sail the course it hath ordained? Yet, dear reader, contemplate this: doth the external force, as compelling as it may be, not interact seamlessly with our internal force? Are they not but two spheres dancing upon the stage of fortuity?

And now, gentle soul, let us conjoin these forces within the realm of compatibilism. 'Tis the belief that, amidst the intricate interplay of internal and external forces, free will doth blossom forth. In this enchanting garden, both forces intertwine, shaping the choices we make and the paths we tread. Within the crucible of our desires, tempered by the impetus of external events, we find the harmony that provides the illusion of freedom. Yet, beware, for this freedom is not a boundless realm but rather a delicate equilibrium, a fragile dance betwixt our internal will and the external circumstances that whisper their siren calls.

In conclusion, dear reader, the distinction betwixt internal and external forces resides not in their nature or origin, but in the kaleidoscope of their influence upon our actions. They are but two sides of the same coin, entwined within the fabric of our existence. To comprehend the delicate dance of compatibilism, we must turn our gaze inward and outward simultaneously, for in that paradoxical vision, we may glimpse the elusive nature of free will and the unfathomable depths to which human agency doth reach. Thus, let us ponder these magnificent forces and challenge the very essence of our beings.