From the January AITSE newsletter:
Quote of the Month
Bunk Science
“The debate about free will, long the purview of philosophers alone, has been given new life by scientists, especially neuroscientists studying how the brain works. And what they’re finding supports the idea that free will is a complete illusion.”
This scientific bunk was written by Jerry Coyne and published in USA Today. According to the article, “everything that you say, or do, must come down to molecules and physics.” Sez who? So, because we understand a little about molecules and physics and we learn science by discovering the laws that govern the behavior of matter and energy, that is all there is?
This conclusion is premature at best. After all, physicists are still speculating about the nature of the atom and subatomic particles, biologists are still trying to figure out how emergent properties work, and neurologists are still discussing what consciousness is.
Beware of those who make grandiose claims. Check the AITSE bunk detecting principles.
See also: Jerry Coyne won’t meet Moshe Averick to discuss the origin of life puzzle – but turns out he’s just as puzzled … .