That implies there IS something beyond one's own biological programming or social conditioning. The reason some people "embrace a kinder way" is because it's in one's nature to do so: maybe because of brain structure or hormones, maybe because of learned ideas, maybe because of a moment of inspiration.
Even for the person taking steps to improve, there is already something in their nature to make them disposed toward taking steps. They are expressing that part of their nature, whether it's pride, a fear of being mocked, or whatever.
The interesting things happen when conflicting parts of one's nature come into conflict. If I have a strong desire for sex with new women, and also a strong desire not to hurt my wife by cheating, which action represents the will of the self? I'd say neither-- you already have to be free of self-impediment to say you have a will to do something; therefore impediments to FREE will must be external, and cannot be internal.
Even for the person taking steps to improve, there is already something in their nature to make them disposed toward taking steps. They are expressing that part of their nature, whether it's pride, a fear of being mocked, or whatever.
The interesting things happen when conflicting parts of one's nature come into conflict. If I have a strong desire for sex with new women, and also a strong desire not to hurt my wife by cheating, which action represents the will of the self? I'd say neither-- you already have to be free of self-impediment to say you have a will to do something; therefore impediments to FREE will must be external, and cannot be internal.
