Free will vs. determinism

In it's absolute? Neither.

Modern neuroscience seems to suggest that our decisions are already made up in our brains, before we consciously recognize and frame them. However, I do think that this does not necessarily prove determinism to be true.

Our thoughts, acts, decisions and so on are predetermined by our previous experience, knowledge et cetera, to a degree. However, especially in small, seemingly random decisions free will plays a big role, in my view.

Little thought experiment.

Think of a city. Any city in this world.

Suddenly, in your mind, you have a catalogue of all the cities you've ever heard of. And you choose one of those.

Why did you choose that one, rather than Sidney or London?

Why didn't you choose Ulan-Bator, for that matter?

How could it have been a decision out of free will, if you didn't even know Ulan-Bator existed?

Why am I still writing?

Who let the dogs out?

I'm done now.

Quantum physics suggests that nothing can be purely deterministic, especially something as complex as the human brain. Though neuroscience suggests we are merely complex automotons. I think that we'll never be able to predict the functions of the brain in a deterministic manner, so free will ends up being more practical, if technically incorrect.

Whenever I feel a comfort zone, and use random number generators to make decisions, thus defeating determinism.

Everything in neuroscience points to determinism. What we should do with that information, I don't know.

I have always chosen my own path. Period.
At times, without thinking things through very well, going on a leap of faith. Other times I can agonize for weeks (like the time I considered giving up the sea to become an IT guy).
Are we fated to be or do some things? I don't think so.
Certainly no gawd has been responsible for my choices in my life.