The concept of a predetermined existence raises profound philosophical and theological questions about free will, determinism, and the nature of reality. Different belief systems and schools of thought approach this topic in various ways, and there is no universally accepted answer. Here are some perspectives:
Religious Views: In some religious traditions, it is believed that a higher power, such as God, has a plan for each individual, and our lives are predetermined according to this divine plan. This perspective often coexists with the concept of free will, where individuals have the ability to make choices within the bounds set by this plan.
Philosophical Determinism: Philosophical determinism suggests that every event, including human actions and choices, is the inevitable result of prior causes. From this perspective, the entire course of history, including individual choices, is determined by a chain of cause-and-effect relationships.
Compatibilism: Some philosophers propose a compatibilist perspective, asserting that free will and determinism can coexist. They argue that even if our choices are determined by prior causes, as long as our actions align with our desires and values, we can consider ourselves acting with free will.
Quantum Indeterminacy: In the realm of quantum mechanics, some argue that certain events may be genuinely unpredictable due to the inherent uncertainty at the quantum level. This introduces an element of randomness and indeterminacy into the universe, which could impact our existence and choices.
Non-Deterministic Theories: Some believe in non-deterministic theories of reality, where events and choices are not predetermined by any external force. According to this view, individuals have genuine free will and are responsible for their decisions.
It's important to recognize that this is a complex and debated topic, and different individuals and belief systems may hold contrasting perspectives. Furthermore, the nature of existence and the question of free will vs. determinism remain open to ongoing exploration and discussion within philosophy, science, and religion.
Ultimately, the question of who or what made choices for us, if our existence is predetermined, may not have a definitive answer that satisfies everyone's understanding of reality. It's a matter of personal belief, and people's views on this subject can shape their understanding of the world and their place in it.