Do People With Alzheimer's Truly Have Free Will & Responsibility?
Abstract
How should society treat individuals who truly cannot recall their crimes? In this talk, I will present a scenario that will discuss the responsibilities one must face if living with a mental illness. I will introduce a hypothetical case; for example if a criminal suffers a seizure, causing grave memory loss, would they be responsible for their actions? Would they receive the same penalty, with us knowing they can't defend themselves? I will then compare that first case to a second one: where a person is living with a mental illness such as Alzheimer's. I will analyze two arguments, one holding the person responsible, and one not holding them responsible. Reviewing their evidence, arguments, and a scenario to strengthen their side. People with Alzheimer's sometimes aren't able to recall memories past a certain time. But morally speaking, every person is born with a conscience and can be aware of their actions being right or wrong. Should people with mental health problems suffer the same fate as one who can remember everything they've done? I conclude the talk by discussing how and why one should consider blaming an individual who cannot remember what they've done.
Do People With Alzheimer's Truly Have Free Will & Responsibility?
How should society treat individuals who truly cannot recall their crimes? In this talk, I will present a scenario that will discuss the responsibilities one must face if living with a mental illness. I will introduce a hypothetical case; for example if a criminal suffers a seizure, causing grave memory loss, would they be responsible for their actions? Would they receive the same penalty, with us knowing they can't defend themselves? I will then compare that first case to a second one: where a person is living with a mental illness such as Alzheimer's. I will analyze two arguments, one holding the person responsible, and one not holding them responsible. Reviewing their evidence, arguments, and a scenario to strengthen their side. People with Alzheimer's sometimes aren't able to recall memories past a certain time. But morally speaking, every person is born with a conscience and can be aware of their actions being right or wrong. Should people with mental health problems suffer the same fate as one who can remember everything they've done? I conclude the talk by discussing how and why one should consider blaming an individual who cannot remember what they've done.