An option is a decision between two hypotheses. A live option
is a decision between two live hypotheses; a dead option is a
decision between two options at least one of which is dead.
A forced option is a decision between two options which we
can’t avoid making; an avoidable option is a decision between two
options which we can avoid making.
A momentous option is an irrevocable option for significant
stakes; a trivial option is an option which is not irrevocable or
for significant stakes.
And finally, and most importantly of all, a genuine option is
an option which is simultaneously living, forced, and momentous.An
example of a genuine option would be the consideration of religious
beliefs.
The genuine option theory applies only to human behavior so the
theory would be relevant to most things involving psychological
import.
In ethics, a genuine option could be the life-changing
affirmation to take charge of one's own life and to accept personal
responsibility for one's choices.
In social relations, a genuine option could be the
life-changing affirmation to chose social service as a life's
vocation.Any instance where there is a life-changing choice could
be a genuine option.
The genuine option theory is vital to the existence of free
will according to James. If I believe I have free will, I will act
accordingly (I have everything to gain and nothing to lose by so
believing), but if I don't believe I have free will then I will be
passive (I have everything to lose and nothing to gain).
Belief in a "fact" can help that "fact" come true. More
accurately, without our belief, the potential fact does not become
possible if we are passive.