EPIPHENOMENON Meaning and
Definition
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Epiphenomenon is a noun that defines a secondary or incidental phenomenon that arises as a result of a primary or underlying event or condition. It refers to something that occurs concurrently with the primary phenomenon, but it is not directly caused by it nor does it have any influence or effect on it.
The term is often used in the context of philosophy and science to describe a byproduct or side effect of a primary process or event. For example, in neuroscience, consciousness is sometimes regarded as an epiphenomenon of brain activity, meaning that it arises as a byproduct of brain functions without actively participating in the causation of those functions.
Epiphenomena are often observed in various fields. In sociology, certain attitudes or behaviors may be considered epiphenomena of broader social, economic, or cultural factors. In medicine, certain symptoms or conditions may be viewed as epiphenomena of an underlying disease or illness.
The concept of epiphenomenon implies a lack of causal power or agency. It suggests that while the secondary phenomenon may be interesting or informative, it does not play an active role in producing the primary phenomenon. Instead, it is merely a passive consequence or manifestation of it.
In summary, an epiphenomenon is a secondary and non-causal phenomenon that arises in conjunction with a primary event or condition, but has no impact on its occurrence or nature.
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A symptom appearing during the course of a disease, which is not of usual occurrence and not necessarily associated with the disease.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for EPIPHENOMENON
- wpiphenomenon
- spiphenomenon
- dpiphenomenon
- rpiphenomenon
- 3piphenomenon
- eoiphenomenon
- eliphenomenon
- e-iphenomenon
- e0iphenomenon
- epuphenomenon
- epjphenomenon
- epkphenomenon
- epophenomenon
- ep9phenomenon
- ep8phenomenon
- epiohenomenon
- epilhenomenon
- epi-henomenon
- peiphenomenon
Etymology of EPIPHENOMENON
The word epiphenomenon originates from the combination of two Greek roots: epi meaning upon or over, and phainomenon which means appearance or phenomenon.
Similar spelling word for EPIPHENOMENON
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