indeterminism
in-dih-TUR-muh-niz-um
/ˌɪn.dɪˈtɜː.mɪ.nɪ.zəm/
The philosophical doctrine that not all events are determined by antecedent causes, allowing for chance or uncaused events.
Posits real fundamental randomness or causal gaps in physics or human decision-making.
The story behind the word. Formed by adding the negative prefix 'in-' to determinism. It became vital in modern debates surrounding quantum mechanics and free will.
Word relationships
- randomness: Randomness is lack of pattern, while indeterminism is a metaphysical theory that events lack total antecedent determination.
- determinism: Determinism asserts that every event is strictly dictated by preceding physical causes.
Commonly confused with
- indecision: Indecision is personal hesitation, whereas indeterminism is a metaphysical theory about uncaused events.
Word family
- indeterminist (noun): An adherent of indeterminism.
- indeterministic (adjective): Relating to indeterminism.
Collocations
- quantum indeterminism
- embrace indeterminism
- causal indeterminism
Example sentences
- "Subatomic quantum mechanics introduced physical indeterminism into modern science, challenging deterministic views." Physics & Philosophy
Memory hook
IN-determinism = NOT strictly determined. Unbroken causal chain broken.
When not to use
Do not use to describe simple disorganization or personal confusion.
Fun facts
- William James championed indeterminism because he believed it restored moral possibility and genuine human agency.
Related words
Explore more words
aleatory, stochastic, metaphysical, contingent, capricious, coincidence
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