Will, Freedom, Adequacy

One and the same meal can be eaten for one of two reasons--either as a response to an irresistible aroma, or as an application of a general regimen, informed by nutritional principles as well as by sensory appeal. While for some, the former is 'free', i. e. is not interfered with, for Spinoza it is the latter which is truly 'free', i. e. is the product of an adequate idea. In addition, according to the theory of Will, as presented here, the latter case entails more Volition than the former. For, a response to even the strongest external compulsion still entails at least some Will, i. e. at least the Motility to pursue the lure, but without the possibility of an alternative course of action. In contrast, a general dietary plan opens up alternatives, e. g. tonight's fish might have been chosen in combination with the choice of chicken tomorrow. Similarly, the 'freedom' that some invoke to justify compulsive economic behavior is an idea that Spinoza classifies as 'inadequate'.