People are born into situations where they have no choice. They are compelled to follow the path of evil. How do we define freedom of choice? The Rambam (Teshuva Perek 5) presents freedom as absolute. Hashem does not decree that a person be evil. Yet reality contradicts this assumption. Where does one find (preferably in Rishonim) a precise definition of freedom of choice. Thank you.
Answer:
This is a difficult question that demands a lengthy answer.
The general idea is that although people are predisposed to certain tendencies and inclinations, this does not mean that they are “compelled” to follow a path of evil. With regard to this everybody has free will – though this free will can be broader for some and narrower for others. See for instance Ramban to Devarim 30:19 and to Bereishis 22:1.
The Rambam speaks of free will versus determinism in Moreh Nevuchim (3:17) and in Shemoneh Perakim (Chap. 8).
There are many Rishonim who discuss the topic, such as the Chovas HaLevavos, the Kuzari, and others. However, they don’t base themselves of the deterministic assumptions of some modern scholarship, so that some “translation” is required.
For an interesting article on the subject in the context of bioethics please see here.
Best wishes and good luck.
