Philosophy: Responsibility after Hard Determinism?

Directions: Is the world better or worse if we let go of the concept of free will and the kind of moral responsibility that accompanies it? Defend a thesis. First, please describe why we might be motivated to hold the Hard Determinist’s view. Second, drawing on Harris and Waller, please describe what follows from this viewpoint concerning our account of responsibility. If we can still hold persons responsible for their actions as Harris suggests, how has that holding changed under the new pressures associated with maintaining a Hard Determinists standpoint? Third, Please explain Waller’s extreme optimism and assess it, providing examples and critical analysis. Finally, please explain Dennett’s view including his main objections to Harris’ arguments. Is Dennett’s view compatible with Waller’s optimism? Explain.