determinism

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "determinism" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about philosophy, science, or psychology, particularly when referring to the idea that all events, including human actions, are determined by preceding events in accordance with the laws of nature. Example: "The debate between free will and determinism has been a central theme in philosophical discussions for centuries."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, as we have seen (Section 8 above), it is illegitimate to infer compatibility with causal determinism from compatibility with determination of the will by uneasiness.

SEP

ONE of the scientific subjects best guaranteed to get people hot under the collar is genetic determinism, especially if what is allegedly being determined is behavioural.

The Economist

Again, this multi-functionality of genes may help to rethink what genetic and biological determination means (see also the discussion of biological determinism in the entry on feminist philosophy of biology).

SEP

Hence, those who believe that God is omni-determining typically are compatibilists with respect to freedom and (in this case) theological determinism.

SEP

Red tinge Dirty washing All change A nation divided Spin quacks Geographical determinism Botticelli and the Martians Who dare call it the dismal science?

The Economist

The progressive, modernist middle-class has replaced the economic radicalism of earlier left-wing thought with a sort of ethno-racial determinism.

The Economist

After the Soviet collapse a sort of liberal determinism took hold.

The Economist

So there is no basis for religious determinism in diplomatic history.

The Economist

Unless one resorts to economic determinism (which seems anyway to be belied by Freedom House's annual freedom index, which includes quite a few poor countries in the "free" category), then what is left is culture.

The Economist

As Susan Lindee, a historian of science at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, points out, today the gene is no longer a simple biological unit, but a "supergene" which has been invested with personality, good or bad, and the power to determine identity, reveal ancient origins, shape family relations and even predict future health.Of course, genetic determinism is nothing new.

The Economist

Communism offered a coherent belief system, based on a false theory of the perfectibility of man and the pseudo-science of economic determinism.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing "determinism", clarify the specific type you are referring to (e.g., causal, genetic, economic) to avoid ambiguity and ensure precise communication.

Common error

Avoid assuming that because two events are correlated, one deterministically causes the other. Determinism implies a necessary connection, not just a statistical association.

Linguistic Context

The noun "determinism" functions as a subject or object in sentences, referring to the philosophical or scientific concept that all events are causally determined. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "determinism" is a well-established noun frequently used in academic, scientific, and philosophical discussions. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and carries the weight of a complex concept that has spurred countless debates throughout history. Understanding its various forms—causal, genetic, economic—is crucial for precise communication. Common errors include mistaking correlation for causation. The term appears most frequently in Science and News & Media, reinforcing its significance in both scholarly and public discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

causal determinism

Specifies that all events are causally determined by prior events.

predestination

Focuses on the idea that all events have been predetermined, often by a divine power.

fatalism

Emphasizes the belief that all events are inevitable and unavoidable, regardless of human action.

inevitability

Highlights the unavoidable nature of certain outcomes.

preordained fate

Suggests a destiny that has been established in advance.

lack of free will

Directly addresses the absence of choice in a deterministic system.

causal necessity

Emphasizes the necessary connection between cause and effect.

mechanical universe

Implies a deterministic system functioning like a machine.

behavioral predictability

Highlights the possibility to forecast actions if determinism is true.

outcome determination

Focuses on the fact that events are shaped or decided by some causes.

FAQs

How is "determinism" used in philosophy?

"Determinism" is a philosophical concept that suggests all events are causally determined by prior events. It's often discussed in relation to free will and moral responsibility.

What are some synonyms for "determinism"?

While not perfect substitutes, related terms include "fatalism", "predestination", and "inevitability", depending on the specific context.

What is the difference between "determinism" and fatalism?

"Determinism" posits that events are causally linked, while "fatalism" suggests events are predetermined regardless of causality. Determinism allows for causal chains, fatalism does not.

Is "determinism" compatible with free will?

The compatibility of "determinism" and free will is a major philosophical debate. Compatibilists argue they can coexist, while incompatibilists argue that determinism negates free will.