Join us for the highly anticipated Passmore Lectures from Professor Pamela Hieronymi.

We are excited to announce that Professor Pamela Hieronymi will be the keynote speaker for this year's Passmore Lecture Series. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with her insightful discussions on the philosophical problem of free will. Below, you will find detailed information about the events featuring Professor Hieronymi.

Synopsis

These lectures tackle the philosophical problem of free will, highlighting a fundamental issue about control. We often mistakenly believe that we must control our own willing in the same manner we control actions, objects, or events. This misconception leads to the notion that we do not “truly” control anything, reducing our sense of control to that of a thermostat. Consequently, this perspective creates a perceived conflict between freedom and scientific explanation.

Lecture 1: "Problems in Life and a Problem in Theory"
Date: Wednesday 21 August
Time: 4.30- 6pm
This lecture will diagnose the problem.
Following this Lecture, there will be a small reception from 6-7pm in the foyer.
*Please register to assist with catering arrangements. We will only be collecting registrations for Lecture 1.
Lecutre 2: "Mind Control"
Date: Thursday 22 August
Time: 3.30- 5pm
This seminar offers the antidote by presenting the concept of "evaluative control." Unlike ordinary control, evaluative control is familiar and recognisable, allowing us to view ourselves as more than sophisticated thermostats while maintaining a clear understanding of our own decisions.
Visit this link for more information on this lecture.

About the Speaker

Pamela Hieronymi is a Professor of Philosophy at UCLA. She works at the intersection of ethics, philosophy of mind, and philosophy of action. She is currently unwinding the problem of free will and moral responsibility in a manuscript, Minds that Matter. Hieronymi also served as a consultant for NBC’s sitcom, The Good Place.

*Image by natalystudio (Adobe Stock)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Registration is required for this event.
This event is only for in-person attendance.
The event will provide vegetarian food and include some options to meet common dietary needs, such as vegan and gluten-free choices.
By registering for this event, you are accepting our privacy policy.
For more information about this event, please contact:Garrett.Cullity@anu.edu.au and events.rsss@anu.edu.au