The "problem of luck" for libertarians is devastating. If an agent's decision is truly undetermined, it means that nothing—no prior reason, no aspect of their character—guarantees that they will choose one option over another. The decision, as libertarian theories often require, is a matter of "random chance or luck". Philosopher Jim Pryor presents a powerful analogy: consider a person strapped into a machine that has a 50% chance of making him shoot a gun to the left and a 50% chance of making him shoot it to the right. In such a scenario, we would not hold that person accountable for the outcome because he is "at the whim of chance".
The paradox here is practical. If you tell founders that luck dominates outcomes, they might work less hard. But if you tell them effort is everything, you're lying. The most successful founders navigate this paradox by acting as if effort controls outcomes while knowing that luck plays a huge role—a cognitive split that's harder than it sounds. lucky paradox guide
By increasing your output, staying relaxed, sharing your journey, and remaining open to deviations, you build a net that catches serendipity automatically. Stop waiting for the stars to align. Go out and construct the gravity that pulls them toward you. The "problem of luck" for libertarians is devastating
Engaging in high-risk, low-reward behaviors (like gambling). Associating with cynical or dishonest people. Ignoring your health or reputation. Summary: Fortune Favors the Active Philosopher Jim Pryor presents a powerful analogy: consider
Psychological flexibility is the ability to hold your goals loosely. Have a clear direction, but remain completely unattached to the specific vehicle that gets you there. If an unexpected storm pushes your boat toward an unknown island, don't fight the current—explore the island. You might just find exactly what you were looking for. Summary Checklist for Everyday Luck
