Free will allows us to choose. But we have incomplete knowledge, and so will often make errors. However, this does not mean that sins arising from an incomplete data set are not our fault. Rather, we have a duty to create as complete a data set as possible, lest we fall back on this as an excuse. Such sins of commission arise from a sin of omission in learning.
For me, sin has a technical and a moral basis. Given that, in spite of Genesis, we are not omniscient, we will inevitably make the wrong choices, not being in full possession of the facts. For me this is ‘original sin,’ and a massive argument for a free market economy, which is more ‘intelligent’ than a command economy. This is different from ‘moral’ sin, which comprises sins of commission and omission. This is a massive argument for an interventionist economy, provided that it is lead by a ‘moral’ authority. So we are at an impasse. Another arbitrating doctrine or principle is required to provide guidance. Read More
