Is this one of those trick "can we change reality" questions?
If I were to compare this question to being on the ocean in two instances.
One being castaway, floating on a log and having to endure every whim of the sea and sky with no control whatsoever. Then I would probably go with the fate thing and my future being pre-determined. Likely, food for shark. Although it has been proven that a positive attitude of truely wanting to survive and consciously looking for the next step in your rescue has greatly increased your chances.
If on the other had I were at sea in a motor or sailing craft where speed and direction were under my control. Then in this case I would say that free will is much more likely to have the upper hand.
You could argue both ways but it really boils down to the resources at hand and your own attitude towards the situation you find yourself in.
If you take the middle east and go with the predetermined thing, you just give up and ride out the train wreck. If you have half a brain and want to survive then you change course or hit the brakes.
I think anyone can predict the future, if all conditions remain the same then to come to some conclusion isn't such a far reach.
What I don't appreciate about the Predictions or prophecies is that they usually are an ultimatum with no change or correction allowed. Usually when people learn something they make corrections. Using freewill, disasters can be avoided because people are consciously making a difference through technology, or personal action, or whatever.
A great disaster I believe that falls in the predetermined fate thing is Hurricane Katrina with with plenty of inaction by everyone. The World Trade Center is another. Great leadership there guys (not).
Jeff
