Neurocalvinism: Calvinism as a Paradigm for Neuroscience

Abstract

In order to assert that the determinism of neuroscience is comparable with that of Calvinism, Dick Swaab, a leading neuroscientist, speaks of ‘neurocalvinism.’ To test this assertion, the author uses the classic view of Calvinism, propounded by Jonathan Edwards, as a conceptual framework. This allows the author to conclude that Edwards has a holistic understanding of human personality, that he defends compatibilism and upholds responsibility and morality. However, Swaab presents himself as an incompatibilist who has a tendency to deny responsibility and morality. Thus, in the case of Edwards, it is not possible to speak about neurocalvinism.