Explanation

Your first clue is “free will.” One can only be responsible for the things one decides, or freely wills, to do. For the second blank, the word instead, even though it occurs later in the sentence, implies that Dr. Wegner is avoiding the traditional talking points of the controversy, or eschewing them.

The word though indicates that the third blank contrasts with the word tangential. Fundamental is thus the most appropriate answer.

Responsible for, eschews, fundamental.
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Sandy
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