Is Free Will An Illusion?

The atomistic view of time distorts reality. When followed to its logical conclusion it entails determinism in which everything and everyone are cogs in an immense machine. It overlooks the element of unpredictability. We have the power to change ourselves for better or for worse. We can choose whether to be reasonable or unreasonable - and our decisions have an impact on physical reality, as the pollution of this planet demonstrates beyond all doubt.

The fatal flaw in determinism is that it is self-destructive. If we cannot change anything we cannot choose what to think and all our conclusions are beyond our control - and therefore untrustworthy. Freedom begins at home. If our minds are slaves there is no such thing as freedom or responsibility. The conclusion that free will is an illusion is worthless because it destroys intellectual independence. It loses sight of the simple fact that we are not mechanisms but persons. It eliminates the distinction between good and evil, right and wrong, unjust and unjust. Everything becomes valueless, purposeless and meaningless - including the assertion that free will is an illusion. If only matter exists nothing matters....