Teleology (Noun)
Meaning
(philosophy) a doctrine explaining phenomena by their ends or purposes.
Classification
Nouns denoting cognitive processes and contents.
Examples
- Aristotle's concept of teleology posits that all living beings strive to fulfill their inherent potential and achieve their ultimate purpose.
- Philosophers who subscribe to a teleological worldview often argue that every event has a predetermined outcome that serves a higher purpose.
- The teleology of human existence has been debated among theologians and philosophers, with some arguing that life's ultimate goal is to find spiritual enlightenment.
- Critics of teleology argue that attributing intentions and purposes to natural phenomena can be misleading and hinder our understanding of scientific principles.
- Examining the teleology of biological organisms can reveal valuable insights into the intricate relationships between structure and function in living systems.