Even if it is correct to say that, "You are a state machine." and "prior state" is an input to the state generation function of the machine, this is _not_ incompatible with free will, and does _not_ require a pre-determined universe.
Simply put, current state as an input does not necessitate pre-determination.
I think the point user all2 was making is that if we remove the prior state modifier from the generate state function then the core piece that is left over is "your basest existence".
I agree pre-determination is orthogonal to the question. If the state machine has a truly random component, pre-determination goes out the window.
> [...] if we remove the prior state modifier from the generate state function then the core piece that is left over is "your basest existence".
I think removing the prior state modifier leaves you with nothing. A brain with no prior state is a brain with absolutely no memories, knowledge, or stored procedures. Even if such a brain were possible to construct, plasticity would ensure that unless it was dead, it would immediately begin accumulating prior state with which to make subsequent choices.
Simply put, current state as an input does not necessitate pre-determination.
I think the point user all2 was making is that if we remove the prior state modifier from the generate state function then the core piece that is left over is "your basest existence".