<p>Q. Are we free to make our own decisions or are we limited in the choices we can make?</p>
<p>Many great minds have pondered the very question of freedom of choice. Although they have not reached a consensus, many seem to be in the opinion that people do not have complete control over their lives. However, with a careful study, one would be able to reach a conclusion that one’s decision and actions are responsible for the consequences. Compelling examples such as Adolf Hitler’s decision and my cousin’s experience bolster this view.</p>
<p>We are free to make our own decisions. Consequences always follow a set of decisions, and they would not exist if choices did not exist. For example, when Adolf Hitler invaded Russia during the World War 2, he made a detrimental decision to split his army, opening up two battlefields. Although most of his generals objected, he persevered through with his plan. This decision led to the defeat of the German army in Russia, which then led to the Germany losing the war. Most people would think that since most of his generals were advising the same action, he would not have had a choice but chance his plan. However, he was able to make a free decision on his own even when there seemed to be restrictions upon his choice.</p>
<p>Likewise, decisions can be made even with occasions that seem to offer no choices at all. For example, when my cousin was participating in a dance competition, his grandfather passed away. The Korean culture impelled him to go to the funeral of his grandfather, so others thought he had to drop out of the competition. However, after a pondering, he was able to decide that he cannot let the opportunity go and confronted the elders in the family. He was able to stay in the competition and won it. In this sense, even when there seems to be no choice, people are free to decide for their actions.</p>
<p>It is true that some aspects of life offer absolutely no choice such as humans having to drink water. However, these aspects are infinitesimal parts of our lives and cannot account for whether we are limited in our choices.</p>
<p>We are open to making decisions on our own. As the examples show, even when there seems to be no choice available, we can make our own decisions. There are instances with the absolute answer without a choice, but they are minor aspects of our lives. In short, people are free to make their own decisions.</p>
<p>Wrote it in 25 minutes. Grade and suggestions?</p>