Redefining Free Will: A Revolutionary Exploration of Attention and Autonomy
Irvine, CA - January 9, 2025 - Author Michael Ferketic announces the release of his groundbreaking book, The Definition of Free Will & A Model of Attention, a transformative exploration of human cognition and autonomy that challenges conventional notions of free will and offers a novel framework for understanding attention.
At its core, the book posits a powerful thesis: free will is the ability to control the focus of attention. Through this lens, the book introduces a conceptual model of attention that redefines how individuals interact with their internal and external environments, offering actionable insights for greater self-determination and empowerment.
Framing this work as an interdisciplinary cross-section of cognitive science and psychology to approach a philosophical topic, The Definition of Free Will & A Model of Attention presents a dual-field model of attention, which divides the mental landscape into internal and external domains. Each domain operates with a focal area and a periphery, creating a dynamic interplay that influences thoughts, emotions, and actions. By distinguishing between impressive actions (involuntary focus shifts) and expressive actions (voluntary focus shifts), the book illuminates the mechanisms behind decision-making, habit formation, and mindfulness. Additionally, the concept of focus is framed as a distributed pattern of awareness that spans across both internal and external fields with resemblance to a constellation. This is a departure from the traditional outlook of focus being singularly pointed like a laser or spotlight
"The act of focusing requires mental energy," explains Ferketic. "Just as we 'pay' attention, we invest, budget, and manage our finite mental resources. There are striking similarities between our focal energy and monetary currency. Furthermore, just as any monetary currency needs to be backed by something of value, motivation is the ‘gold’ that backs this focal energy giving it value. My goal is to provide readers with a deeper understanding of how attention works, empowering them to cultivate habits, overcome distractions, and exercise greater autonomy in their daily lives."
Accessible yet deeply insightful, the book is designed to resonate with academics, educators, philosophers, psychologists, and anyone interested in unlocking the potential of their mind. Whether you're seeking to break unproductive habits, build positive routines, or simply understand the mechanics of your own attention, this book offers practical strategies and philosophical clarity.
The Definition of Free Will & A Model of Attention is not just a book—it’s a call to action for individuals to reclaim their autonomy in a world where distractions often dictate focus. With its engaging prose and revolutionary ideas, it promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone striving to understand and master the art of attention.
The book is now available for purchase on Amazon ( https://a.co/d/0R168w7 ), and Ferketic is available for interviews, speaking engagements, and collaborations.
About the Author
Michael Ferketic is an author, philosopher, and thought leader dedicated to exploring the intersections of attention, free will, and human potential. With a mission to make complex ideas accessible and actionable, Ferketic seeks to inspire individuals to take charge of their mental landscapes and live with greater intention and purpose.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Michael Ferketic
definitionoffreewill@gmail.com
www.linkedin.com/in/michael-ferketic-749232342
https://www.instagram.com/definitionoffreewill/
