determinism

[dɪˈtɜːmɪnɪzəm]

determinism Definition

  • 1the philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will
  • 2the doctrine that all facts and events exemplify natural laws

Using determinism: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "determinism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    Determinism holds that every event is caused by prior events.

  • Example

    The determinism of his philosophy was controversial among his peers.

  • Example

    The idea of free will is incompatible with determinism.

determinism Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for determinism

Phrases with determinism

  • the belief that determinism is true and that free will is an illusion

    Example

    Hard determinism argues that our choices are predetermined by factors beyond our control.

  • the belief that determinism and free will are compatible

    Example

    Soft determinism suggests that while our choices are influenced by external factors, we still have some degree of free will.

  • the belief that human behavior is primarily determined by biological factors

    Example

    Biological determinism has been used to justify discrimination against certain groups of people.

Origins of determinism

from French 'déterminisme', from 'déterminer', meaning 'to determine'

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Summary: determinism in Brief

Determinism [dɪˈtɜːmɪnɪzəm] is a philosophical belief that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by external causes. It is often contrasted with the concept of free will. Determinism can be divided into hard determinism, which denies free will, and soft determinism, which suggests that free will and determinism are compatible. Examples of determinism include the belief that every event is caused by prior events and that human behavior is primarily determined by biological factors.