I agree with your post. Concerning the above, yes, and I would add that we (humans) have the ability to train our thoughts! Just like a martial arts practitioner can train their body to react instinctively, we can train our minds/thoughts the same way. I don't have links, but one can go out to His Holiness the Dalai Lama website to listen to discussions and read about the mind studies that have been and continue to be conducted. It's all very interesting. And, as you said, it is governed by each individual's thoughts, AND each individual has the ability to change/shape their own thoughts.
I think a lot of people don't want the onus of having to do such "work" themselves. It's easier to place the onus on someone or something else, than to have to come to the realization of how/what they really think and do... what the true motivations are behind their thoughts and actions. And, yes, I am also guilty of this! But, I'm trying!