To what extent can I determine my own destiny?

Essay from the year 2003 in the subject Philosophy - Practical (Ethics, Aesthetics, Culture, Nature, Right, ...), University of Phoenix, language: English, abstract: Whether one is the master of his own will, or merely a puppet in some grander play, has been the subject for debate for centuries. Does one have autonomy or are they a victim of determinism? Clearly those who favor autonomy, or free will, believe that each person has their destiny in their hands, directing it as they see fit, able to make alternate choices if they so desire. Those who favor determinism, see the world in a different light. They see a world with external causes limiting one's actions and removing the control from the individual. Some believe the two concepts are mutually exclusive of one another, while others see them existing symbiotically. When one considers to what extent they can determine their own destiny, these facets of this debate must be explored.