Proof That Free Will Is Not for Everyone
The notion of free will—that individuals have the autonomy to make choices independent of external influences—has been a cornerstone of philosophical discourse for centuries. However, emerging research in neuroscience and psychology suggests that our decisions may be significantly shaped by genetic, environmental, and neurochemical factors beyond our conscious control. This article delves into the arguments challenging the universality of free will, examining how these determinants can constrain personal autonomy and questioning the extent to which free will is accessible to everyone.
We believe we have free will, but do we really? Our thoughts are shaped by what we know, and what we know is not absolute truth—it’s just a perspective molded by our surroundings. These perspectives create biases, and those biases strip us of our free will. While we think we make independent choices, the reality is far more complex. Sounds strange, right?
How Your Thoughts Deceive You Every Day
Consider this:
- A woman raised in a patriarchal society, told from childhood that her only purpose is to be a homemaker, may struggle to imagine life as an independent woman—even if she is stuck in an abusive marriage.
- A poor man who has never been exposed to intellectual pursuits will not naturally think about advanced chess strategies.
- A wealthy urban man will never have to wonder where his next meal will come from.
Our thoughts are simply reflections of our conditioning. Anything outside of that conditioning feels bizarre, unrealistic, or even impossible.
You can’t imagine eating bland, boiled food solely for survival because society has conditioned you to seek pleasure in delicious meals. We are also conditioned to chase generational wealth, world travel, and endless entertainment—all of which seem like essential goals in life.
But what if hope itself is a trap?
Why Hopelessness Can Be a Good Thing
Most of our hopes are fueled by greed or fear, both of which are deeply ingrained in us. We crave pleasure, but do we really need fleeting moments of happiness that require a lifetime of struggle? Is there an alternative?
Yes—knowledge.
The more sources of knowledge you explore, the greater your free will becomes. When you open your mind to different perspectives, you break free from your biases and conditioning.
True Free Will: Realizing Your Infinite Potential
At the core of true free will is the realization that you are enough, right now.
- If you lack money, you have a functioning brain capable of solving problems and ensuring your survival.
- If you have a disability, there are countless specially-abled individuals thriving in ways you may not have imagined.
- If you feel trapped by family, relationships, or societal expectations, you have the power to leave and start anew.
Free will is not the ability to do whatever you want—it’s the ability to recognize that your potential is limitless.
