What is indeterminism?

Answer

Indeterminism is best understood when compared to determinism. Determinism and indeterminism are philosophical terms rather than theological ones.

Determinism is the philosophical belief that asserts none of our actions are free but are instead determined by preceding causes. The freedom of the will is merely an illusion. For instance, a man may choose to wear a blue shirt and a red tie one morning, and it may seem like a free choice. However, according to determinism, his decision was not free. His preferences have been predetermined by brain chemicals, psychological influences during childhood and all moments leading up to this point, his occupation, and perhaps numerous unknown and unseen natural forces that are influencing him—and which have also been influenced by similar forces. Consequently, the decision to wear a blue shirt and a red tie was predestined.

If we could observe and comprehend all the forces influencing a person, we would be able to predict with 100 percent accuracy what they would do in any given situation. However, since we cannot do so, it appears to us as if people make free choices; in reality, they make the only choice available to them. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was a determinist, and this perspective is evident in his Sherlock Holmes stories and novels. Holmes is an exceptional detective because he possesses greater insight into the influences affecting others; thus, he can better determine who did what and why than anyone else. Even criminals have no alternative, so in Doyle’s world, they are not judged on a moral basis, although they may need to be confined to safeguard the rest of society.

Indeterminism simply rejects the idea that all choices are predetermined by preceding causes. Indeterminism asserts that individuals genuinely have the freedom to make choices.

The Bible does not address either indeterminism or determinism. Instead, the Bible confirms that God is in control.In all things, it is essential to recognize that individuals are accountable for their decisions. Addressing the presence of temptations in the world, Jesus stated, “Such things must happen, but woe to the person through whom they occur!” « Woe to the world because of its stumbling blocks! For it is inevitable that stumbling blocks come; but woe to that person through whom the stumbling block comes! », (Matthew 18:7). The statement “such things must happen” may imply determinism; however, holding “the person through whom they occur” accountable suggests indeterminism. The idea that determinism and indeterminism can coexist is known as compatibilism—the belief that God’s control aligns with human choice and accountability.

Given that indeterminism is not a term found in the Bible or theology, it would be cautious to label it as biblical, just as it would be unwise to endorse determinism. Compatibilism is a more suitable term. While we are entirely under God’s control, He grants us the freedom to make choices. We may have the freedom to act as we please, but until we are spiritually renewed in Christ, our desires do not align with God’s will, and in this sense, our wills are constrained. As long as we insist on controlling our own lives, we are in opposition to God (see Romans 8:5-8). In our natural state, we are unable to please God. It is only when we are spiritually reborn in Christ that we can live in a manner that is pleasing to God.