Free-will v Chemical Determinism Composed

 
Free-will v Chemical Determinism Composed
By Michael McManus
 
In our chemical-inherited selves the elaborate winding corridors of the psyche
Dance to synapses’ complex tune.
Molecular decision-whispers guide
The fleeting moments of human decision
While chemistry of the mind, conducts the orchestral behaviour.
 
Neurotransmitters, elusive messengers in their web of shadows,
Wield an understated symphonic power
Directing the flow from the primary motor cortex.
They shape the cadence, leaving an indelible imprint
On the fabric of consciousness, a stamp of intent that endures.
 
The swaying baton enhances the senses,
Dopamine's abrupt surge, a fervent leap towards desire,
An unyielding craving driving the search for what is acute.
Serotonin's delicate sway, a gentle modulation of mood-tides,
Shape the ebb and flow of feelings in their intricate play.
 
Oxytocin's tender embrace, a fragile strand entwining hearts,
Forges connections where the essence of affection lingers.
Endorphins' quiet solace, a balm for the sting of pain,
Calm the turbulence, imparting a serene tranquility,
Yet still the behavioural chaos returns.
 
Within this symphony of unseen forces, the alchemy of the mind
Weaves the tortuous tapestry of human experience.
It directs joy, sorrow, love and crime, each linked in a tangled chain
As brain chemistry holds its enigmatic realm in eternal derterministic transgression,
Free-will reduced to deviance.
 
The score is an artistic masterpiece, but choice-bereft,
Hardly mitigating chemistry’s circumstances.
Thus far, the penal overspill increases with those who made bad, chemical choices.
Yet, if free-will is myth, getting out of bed this morning is pointless,
And, determined, will we all be running amok today?