reductionism Definition
the practice of simplifying complex phenomena by reducing them to their basic or fundamental parts.
Using reductionism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "reductionism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The reductionism of the theory fails to account for the complexity of human behavior.
Example
The reductionism of the argument ignores the broader social context in which the issue arises.
Example
The reductionism of the approach has led to oversimplification of the problem.
reductionism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for reductionism
Phrases with reductionism
the belief that all human behavior can be explained solely in terms of biological factors
Example
The theory of biological reductionism has been criticized for ignoring the role of social and cultural factors in shaping human behavior.
the belief that all human behavior can be explained solely in terms of psychological factors
Example
The theory of psychological reductionism has been criticized for ignoring the role of social and cultural factors in shaping human behavior.
the belief that all human behavior can be explained solely in terms of economic factors
Example
The theory of economic reductionism has been criticized for ignoring the role of social and cultural factors in shaping human behavior.
Summary: reductionism in Brief
The term 'reductionism' [rɪˈdʌkʃənɪzəm] refers to the practice of simplifying complex phenomena by breaking them down into their basic or fundamental parts. It is often criticized for oversimplification, as seen in 'The reductionism of the approach has led to oversimplification of the problem.' Reductionism can be applied to different fields, such as biology, psychology, and economics, resulting in theories like 'biological reductionism,' 'psychological reductionism,' and 'economic reductionism.'