Before epilepsy was understood to be a neurological condition, people believed it was caused by the moon, or by phlegm in the brain. They condemned seizures as evidence of witchcraft or demonic possession, and killed or castrated sufferers to prevent them from passing tainted blood to a new generation.
I tend to agree with the author. He’s not saying we can’t make choices. We do have the ability to make choices. It’s just that our choices are driven by so much history and memories and brain capability/functioning. Outside stimuli is so important. The sage advice from a relative is important. That’s why if you want to fly like an eagle don’t hang out with the turkeys.