Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Practice

What does a deterministic philosophy suggest about human behavior?

1. It is solely influenced by external social factors

2. It is determined by random chance and circumstance

3. It is largely influenced by internal, unconscious drives

4. It is completely within an individual's conscious control

The correct answer is: It is largely influenced by internal, unconscious drives

A deterministic philosophy posits that human behavior is influenced by a combination of internal factors, including instincts, drives, and unconscious motivations. This viewpoint suggests that individuals may not be fully aware of the underlying forces shaping their thoughts and actions, as these influences often operate below the level of conscious awareness. In this context, such a perspective aligns with psychoanalytic theories, which emphasize the role of unconscious drives and desires in determining behavior. By considering the interplay of these internal factors, a deterministic approach provides a framework for understanding behaviors that may seem irrational or inexplicable from a purely conscious standpoint. The other options do not capture the essence of deterministic philosophy. For instance, attributing behavior solely to external social factors would neglect the internal aspects that determinism considers crucial. Similarly, suggesting behavior is determined by random chance undermines the structured nature of deterministic thinking, which emphasizes causation over randomness. Lastly, the notion that behavior is completely under an individual's conscious control contrasts with the determinism that acknowledges significant influence from unconscious and internal drives.