The term "of free will" refers to the state of acting or making choices without external coercion, constraint, or predetermined influence. It denotes an individual's ability to make independent decisions based on their own desires, beliefs, and values.
The concept of free will suggests that humans possess an inherent capacity to act freely, unbound by external forces, and are responsible for the consequences of those actions. It encompasses the notion that individuals have the autonomy to choose their actions, thoughts, and beliefs, and are capable of shaping their own lives.
The idea of free will has been intensely debated in philosophical and theological contexts throughout history. Philosophers have pondered whether free will can coexist with determinism, which argues that all events, including human actions, are determined by past events and natural laws. Nonetheless, the belief in free will remains prevalent in many aspects of human life, including legal systems that attribute moral responsibility to individuals who act of their own volition.
To act "of free will" implies a conscious decision-making process, where one's choices are guided by personal values, desires, and reasoning. It implies a freedom from external coercion or influence, allowing individuals to align their actions with their own ethical standards. Consequently, being "of free will" implies a level of autonomy, independence, and moral agency in one's decisions and actions.
