Determinism (Noun)
Meaning
(philosophy) a philosophical theory holding that all events are inevitable consequences of antecedent sufficient causes; often understood as denying the possibility of free will.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- Determinism suggests that every choice we make is the inevitable result of prior causes and is therefore predetermined.
- The philosopher's argument in favor of determinism was strengthened by the discovery of genetics and brain function.
- One of the main criticisms of determinism is that it strips individuals of their moral responsibility for their actions.
- Hard determinism, also known as incompatibilism, argues that free will is completely impossible in a world governed by physical laws.
- The concept of determinism has been debated for centuries, with some arguing that it undermines human free will, while others see it as a fundamental aspect of the natural world.