Does Man Have Free Will?

I asked this question in my last post and here are a few of my thoughts.  First, you have to define free will.  Websters dictionary defines free will as a voluntary choice or decision. It is considered the freedom of humans to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or by divine intervention.  I guess the answer to this question is a matter of perspective. 

What are the causes for the choices we make?  Choices are based on environment and experience.  We learn from our parents, culture and society.  Our view of the world is shaped by these groups.  Past experiences and prior choices teach us.  Based on what we've learned from the consequences, good or bad, of our previous choices and on the view we have of the world, we make choices. 

Therefore, if the basis for our choices comes from experiences and environment, do we really have the ability to make a choice that is not determined by prior causes (or choices) or by divine intervention.  After all, was it not God who decided to have me born to the parents I have and raised in America, more specifically the south?  My view of life and the world is much different than that of a 25 yr. old Palestinian or a 25 yr. old Chinese man. 

I think that man has an overwhelming desire to feel free.  We want to believe that we can choose to do whatever we want, whenever we want.  I thinkl we all want to feel in control of our own destinies.  Whether we actually have free will or not, will our choices change?  How does the truth of free will actually affect our choices?  To me, it is simply a mind set.  If believing that man has free will makes a person feel more alive, more empowered, then I say believe in free will.  I think the idea of free will was created to hold people responsible for their own actions.  And in that case, I think it is definitely a good thing - whether I truly believe in human free will or not

On a side note, Do Angels have free will?   If not, then how did Lucifer and 1/3 of the angels decide to rebel against God, resulting in banishment from heaven?

Question for next time: What is sin?