Question

Assess both the strengths and weaknesses of the famous Libet study

Answer 1

Labet carried out an experiment to find out whether or not individuals have free will. He found that conscious bodily movements show readiness potential. He then suggested that even though the conscious mind does not make the first voluntary movement to carry out an act, it still has the power to control the outcome of an action. Now, the study has certain strengths and weaknesses which are discussed below:

1) The methodology used by Libet is questionable. In the experiment, participants were asked to carry out an act when they felt the urge to do so. However, in reality, participants followed the instructions given by the researcher. Their action wasn't carried out purely because of the conscious will, rather they agreed to the researcher's instruction and followed it accordingly.

2) Reliability of the study. The reliability of the Libet's study is questionable as the method he used to get the acknowledgment of the participants was unreliable.

3) Researchers Keller & Heckhausen (1990) conducted a similar experiment and found similar results. Additionally, they also found that not only conscious body movements show readiness potential but also, unconscious body movements show the same pattern.