Final Cause (Noun)
Meaning
(philosophy) the end or purpose of a thing or process.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- Aristotle argued that the final cause of human existence is to achieve happiness through the practice of virtue.
- In philosophy, final cause refers to the ultimate goal or purpose that a particular thing or process is striving to achieve.
- The architect designed the building with a specific final cause in mind - to serve as a functional and aesthetically pleasing space for the community.
- According to some philosophical traditions, the final cause of the natural world is to reflect the glory and wisdom of its creator.
- Kant's Critique of Judgment explores the concept of final cause in the realm of living organisms and their apparent purposefulness.