Philosophy of science of decision making - Conrad Heilmann (Dec 5)

Conrad Heilmann (Erasmus University Rotterdam)

Dear All,   

You're cordially invited to the seventh installment of the Philosophy of Science of Decision Making seminar series.   

Speaker: Conrad Heilmann (Erasmus University Rotterdam)  

Title: “Intrapersonal conflict resolved”  

Date: 5 December 2025, 14:00 (CET / GMT+1)

Format: Online, in English  

Abstract: Cases of intertemporal weak will, such as procrastination, are associated with inner conflict. I advance a distinction between 'shallow' and 'deep' inner conflict that applies to such cases. Shallow inner conflict describes situations in which an individual promotes now over later. It is a time conflict. Deep inner conflict describes situations in which an individual has more than one credible evaluative perspective which differ in recommendation. It is a value conflict. The distinction has a couple of payoffs. For one, the distinction can be used as a therapeutic tool. As such, it can help individuals with reflecting about what to do in cases that are commonly associated with intertemporal weak will. For another, distinguishing between shallow and deep inner conflict also has methodological advantages. The distinction effectively separates the time and value dimension in intertemporal weak will cases. This in turn, offers a new perspective with which to critically appraise philosophical and economic theories of intertemporal weak will.    

Registration: If you would like to join this seminar and have not previously registered, please send an email to [email protected] with the subject line "PhilSciDec". Video links will be shared only with those who register at least 24 hrs in advance of the seminar.

Info: For more information about the seminar series, including future speakers and topics, please visit the website below.