Casa · B2 Upper Intermediate · Lesson 11 of 20 · Step 2

Philosophy & Thought

Abstract reasoning and the subjunctive mood

Use the subjunctive mood in formal suggestions and demands
Recognise and produce subjunctive forms after key expressions
Discuss philosophical ideas and ethical dilemmas

Words · tap a card to see it used

Grammar

The subjunctive mood

The subjunctive uses the base form of the verb (without -s, -ed, or auxiliaries) after expressions of demand, suggestion, or necessity: 'I suggest that he go', 'It is essential that she be present'. After 'if' for unreal conditions, use 'were' for all subjects: 'If I were you'. Common triggers: suggest, recommend, insist, demand, it is essential/vital/important that.

I suggest that he reconsider his position on the matter.

It is essential that every student be given equal opportunity.

If I were a philosopher, I would study the problem of consciousness.

The committee demanded that the report be submitted by Friday.

Exercises · type, then check

1. Complete each sentence with the correct subjunctive form of the verb in brackets.

1.The professor insisted that every student (attend) the lecture.

2.It is vital that the evidence (be) preserved for future analysis.

3.If I (be) in her position, I would approach the problem differently.

4.She recommended that he (seek) a second opinion before deciding.

5.It is important that each participant (have) access to the full text.

2. Choose the correct option to complete each sentence.

1. The board demanded that the director ___ immediately.

2. If she ___ here right now, she would know what to do.

3. It is crucial that this information ___ confidential.

4. I suggest that the meeting ___ postponed until next week.

5. He spoke as though he ___ an expert on the subject.

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Reading

The Problem of Free Will

For thousands of years, philosophers have grappled with the question of whether human beings truly possess free will. Determinists argue that every action we take is the inevitable result of prior causes — our genetics, upbringing, and environment. If this is the case, then it is difficult to justify holding people morally responsible for their choices. On the other hand, libertarian philosophers (in the metaphysical sense) insist that human consciousness allows us to transcend mere causation. They suggest that each person be regarded as a genuine agent capable of independent thought. A middle position, known as compatibilism, attempts to reconcile determinism with moral responsibility. Compatibilists propose that free will does not require the absence of causation but merely the absence of coercion. If I were forced to choose, I might lean toward this middle ground — yet the paradox remains: how can a choice be truly free if it was always going to happen?

1. What do determinists believe about human actions?

2. How does compatibilism attempt to resolve the free will debate?

Speaking · say it out loud, with a partner or alone

1Debate with a partner: 'If we do not have free will, should we still punish criminals?' Present arguments for and against, using subjunctive structures where appropriate.

2Discuss whether it is possible to live a meaningful life without ever contemplating philosophical questions. What role does reflection play in human well-being?

Writing

Write a paragraph (8–10 sentences) arguing that schools should or should not teach philosophy. Use at least three subjunctive structures (e.g., 'I recommend that...', 'It is essential that...', 'If I were...').

0 words

Finished?

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