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Glite Dictionary
✝️ Ethical doctrine 🤔 Philosophical view
probabilism

probabilism

9.9
The idea that a best guess is enough to form beliefs and make decisions when nothing is certain
  • noun
  • /prəˈbæbɪlɪzəm/
  • Specialized
translation icon : probabilismo
  • Many philosophers discuss probabilism.

Examples

  • The concept of probabilism has influenced debates in both ethics and the philosophy of science.

  • He rejected absolute certainty, instead embracing probabilism as a guide for belief.

  • Some philosophers argue that probabilism provides a practical basis for making decisions in the absence of certainty.

  • Don't underestimate probabilism!

  • Many philosophers debate the merits of probabilism, arguing that it offers a reasonable way to make decisions in uncertain situations.

  • In the context of scientific research, probabilism helps researchers evaluate hypotheses when absolute certainty is not possible.

  • The adoption of probabilism in decision-making allows individuals to base their choices on likelihood rather than guaranteed outcomes.

Surface Forms

probabilism singular
probabilisms plural

Morphology

probabilism = probable (transparent) = probabil + ism

A regular noun-formation from the adjective 'probable' with '-ism' denoting a doctrine; the meaning 'doctrine based on probability' is directly derivable.

Etymology

Probabilism comes from the common word probable ('likely') and the ending -ism ('belief' or 'system'). It names the idea that, since certainty is often impossible, you base your belief or decision on what is most 'likely', so probabilism means using probability as a guide for belief and action.