Is there a rationalist consensus on free will vs determinism?
Someone already mentioned Spinoza. I was surprised he wasn’t included in the lists of books you’re reading. Spinoza would say that strong emotions (even those based on inadequate ideas) will always overcome less strong emotions (even those based on adequate ideas). So your shame is unlikely to shut down your hatred unless it develops into profound self-loathing, which would probably do more harm than good, overall. Spinoza also says that weaker emotions can win by duration (persisting over time). In addition, his whole philosophy is based on the idea that we don’t have free will and therefore cannot be blamed for our mistakes and the destruction they wreak. Sapolsky supports Spinoza’s claims with current science and is very persuasive. Spinoza would likely advise you to develop your love of humanity by dedicated practice and allow it to resolve your contempt gradually.
Is there a rationalist consensus on free will vs determinism?
Someone already mentioned Spinoza. I was surprised he wasn’t included in the lists of books you’re reading. Spinoza would say that strong emotions (even those based on inadequate ideas) will always overcome less strong emotions (even those based on adequate ideas). So your shame is unlikely to shut down your hatred unless it develops into profound self-loathing, which would probably do more harm than good, overall. Spinoza also says that weaker emotions can win by duration (persisting over time). In addition, his whole philosophy is based on the idea that we don’t have free will and therefore cannot be blamed for our mistakes and the destruction they wreak. Sapolsky supports Spinoza’s claims with current science and is very persuasive. Spinoza would likely advise you to develop your love of humanity by dedicated practice and allow it to resolve your contempt gradually.