🧠 Philosophical theory 🤝 Social theory

relationism

1 9.9

The idea that relations between things matter more than the things themselves

noun
/rɪˈleɪʃənɪzəm/

Formal

: relacionismo

The concept of relationism challenges the idea that objects exist independently of their connections.

Examples

Relationism emphasizes the importance of connections over isolated entities.
Many physicists discuss relationism when debating the nature of space and time.
In his lecture, the professor explained how relationism differs from other metaphysical theories.
Many philosophers advocate for relationism in their theories.
The concept of relationism suggests that our understanding of the universe is shaped by the relationships among objects.
Many philosophers advocate for relationism, arguing that entities are defined by their interactions and connections.
In discussing relationism, the researcher highlighted how relationships can influence our perception of reality.

Surface Forms

relationism singular

relationisms plural

Morphology

relationism = relation (transparent) = relation + ism

The philosophical sense is a doctrinal extension of 'relation' via the suffix '-ism', a standard and productive formation.

Etymology

Relationism comes from relation ('a connection') and -ism ('a theory'), so the word names the idea that connections are key. That's why philosophical relationism says relations between things are more basic than the things themselves.