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There are many different views on fate, what it is, and whether or not it exists. The dictionary definition of the word “fate” is; that which is inevitably predetermined or destiny. But is there any real way of knowing the truth about this supernatural phenomenon? Do we actually create our own fate, or is it destiny? Where does fate come from (if in fact it exists)? Who or what controls our fates? Are the decisions we make fate as well? Are our lives planned out for us and we are just playing the parts? Many view points need to be examined. These are all valid questions that need to be answered before one is able to draw any conclusions on the subject.
The term “fate” is directly affiliated with the term “destiny.” Some say that fate is defined by destiny. Destiny may be seen either as a fixed sequence of events that is inevitable and unchangeable, or as the idea that individuals create their own destiny by choosing different paths and making different decisions throughout their life. Fate implies no choice in life, and ends fatally, with death. Fate is an outcome determined by an outside source. Some believe that our predestination to live our lives the way we do, is a religious concept. While others believe that free will does not even exist, which therefore instills the idea that history has happened in the only way possible. There are also those who believe in determinism, such as Hard Determinists, who believe that free will is an illusion and the concept that our lives, humans’ mental processes, behavior and decision-making are all things which are determined by an unbroken chain of prior happenings or historical traditions.
Now then, the question that comes to mind is: If fate or predestination truly does exist, then does free will exist, and what is it? According to some beliefs both cannot exist together, they are incompatible. It is rather difficult to have control over one’s own destiny if there are factors over which one does not...