trc (08/03/82)
Well, it seems to me that, once a person becomes conscious, they begin to consider themselves as something separated from the rest of the universe. Regardless of their past, once they start (determined or not) to THINK, they have the ability to influence their future to their own benefit. By THEY, I mean the sum of their mind and physical self. By THINKING, I mean more than merely reacting to similar circumstances in a fixed or random manner. In order to be declared THINKING, the person must actively decide what would be beneficial for them, and then decide whether to take that action. Under this individualistic definition, free will makes perfect sense. A person is free to choose, separate from influences in the surrounding universe (excepting of course, application of force by others). So what, if their genetic makeup or pre-consciousness history determines what that person decides? - THESE ARE PART OF THEM! The important thing is that the determination of what is good for the individual is made by that individual, not by others. If that individual makes a decision that is not good for them, the consequences are theirs. And if, through no faulty decision of their own, ill events befall them, they do not lose the freedom to choose to make the best of the situation, so long as consciousness lasts. In reference to the message about angels dancing on a pin, it seems to me that the popular saying must have gotten its start when people realized that it really wasnt the most relevant thing to be considering in relation to religion. I think the same could be said to apply to most of the arguing over determinism VS free will. I am who I am, but this includes the ability to change who I am. Thomas Craver houti!trc