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Computers Quote by Stephen Hawking

“it seems that we are no more than biological machines and that free will is just an illusion.” quote by Stephen Hawking
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““it seems that we are no more than biological machines and that free will is just an illusion.””

Stephen Hawking

About This Quote

Source Book: Brief Answers to the Big Questions, 2018

Human behavior may be driven by biology, suggesting free will is an emergent illusion.

In simple terms: We might be biological machines without true free will.

Key Takeaway

Question assumptions about autonomy.

Themes

determinism philosophy neuroscience

Mood

thought‑provoking skeptical

Type

philosophical scientific

When to use this quote

  • legal responsibility
  • personal accountability
  • AI decision‑making

Key Concepts

free will biological determinism ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you feel you choose your actions?
  • How does this view affect moral responsibility?
A Different Perspective

The view may overlook emergent consciousness and agency.

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