Philosophy

Session I

Cosette Jo, "Atomic Self-Control"

Self-control has long been a subject of philosophical and psychological interest, yet its definition and components continue to be disputed. In his recent paper, Chandra Sripada draws on cognitive science research to construct the “atomic model,” siding with a traditional view on self-control as a mental process engaging an individual’s active resistance to temptation. However, other contemporary models embrace the concept of diachronic self-control, arguing that our understanding of self-control should be broadened to include any strategies implemented to limit susceptibility to temptation, often by avoiding it in the first place. In Rethinking Self-Control, Matthew Haug poses some criticisms that suggest that Sripada’s model doesn’t allow for such a narrow view, and should accommodate instances of diachronic self-control. This project seeks to defend Sripada’s account while reconciling some of Haug’s arguments, redefining the limits of self-control in accordance with the atomic model.

Student Major(s)/Minor: Economics

Advisor: Dr. Matthew Haug