"Je suis très à l'aise avec l'idée que nous pouvons dépasser la biologie avec le libre arbitre"

The central idea here is that human beings have the power to make conscious choices that can surpass or change their natural instincts and biological predispositions. Imagine you have a strong craving for junk food. Your body might be telling you to go for it, but you can use your willpower to opt for a healthier snack. It's this ability to choose that sets us apart.

To understand this better, think about the mid-20th century, a time when many people believed that humans were largely at the mercy of their biological urges. Sigmund Freud, for example, suggested that our actions were heavily influenced by unconscious drives. But as psychology and science evolved, experts began to recognize the power of the human mind—our capacity to make choices independent of our biological inclinations.

Let's take fitness as a real-life example. Picture a person who's not naturally athletic. Their biology might predispose them to a sedentary lifestyle, but they decide to train for a marathon. They start small, running just a mile or two, and gradually increase their distance. Over time, their body adapts. They shed weight, build muscle, and increase their endurance. They've overridden their biology through sheer willpower and consistent effort.

So, how do you apply this idea to your life? Start by setting goals that challenge your natural tendencies. Maybe you want to break a habit, like smoking or excessive screen time. Begin by making small, manageable changes. Replace one cigarette with a piece of gum. Swap 10 minutes of social media with a walk outside. Gradually, these small choices add up and lead to significant changes.

Think of a relatable scenario: You're at a party, and there's a buffet of tempting, sugary desserts. Your biological response is to dive in and indulge. But you remember your goal to eat healthier. Instead of avoiding the table altogether (which might feel impossible), you decide to take a small portion. You savor each bite, enjoying it fully. You've exercised your free will to make a choice that aligns with your long-term goals rather than your immediate cravings.

This idea isn't just about resisting temptation—it's about taking control of your life's direction. Think about someone who grew up in a family where no one pursued higher education. They might feel destined to follow the same path. But with determination and effort, they can choose to go to college, securing a different future for themselves and potentially breaking a family cycle. It’s the power of free will in action.

In short, you've got more control than you might think. It’s about making deliberate choices, even when your instincts push you in the opposite direction. So next time you're faced with a decision, remember: you're not just a product of your biology. You have the power to override it.