INFINITE REGRESSION Meaning and
Definition
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Infinite regression refers to an endless cycle or sequence of events or causes that are forever repeated or extended backward. It is a concept primarily encountered in philosophy and logic, particularly in discussions related to causality and explanations.
The idea behind infinite regression arises when attempting to provide a comprehensive explanation or justification for a particular event or phenomenon. Infinite regression posits that for every cause or explanation, there is always a preceding cause or explanation, creating an infinite and unending chain. This suggests that a definitive and ultimate explanation becomes unattainable.
The notion is often depicted as a logical fallacy, highlighting the limitation of finding a satisfactory answer. It demonstrates the impossibility of providing an ultimate cause or starting point, as each cause requires an antecedent cause, leading to an infinite chain of causation.
Infinite regression has broader applications beyond the realm of causality, such as in the field of epistemology. It challenges the idea that knowledge or understanding can be conclusively established, as it becomes an endless search for a justifiable source.
Overall, infinite regression serves as a theoretical tool for examining the limitations of explanations and understanding, emphasizing the intrinsic difficulties in providing absolute or final answers to complex philosophical or logical inquiries.
Common Misspellings for INFINITE REGRESSION
- unfinite regression
- jnfinite regression
- knfinite regression
- onfinite regression
- 9nfinite regression
- 8nfinite regression
- ibfinite regression
- imfinite regression
- ijfinite regression
- ihfinite regression
- indinite regression
- incinite regression
- invinite regression
- inginite regression
- intinite regression
- inrinite regression
- infunite regression
- infjnite regression
- infknite regression
- infonite regression
Etymology of INFINITE REGRESSION
The term "infinite regression" is a combination of two words with their respective etymologies:
1. Infinite: The word "infinite" comes from the Latin word "infinitus", which is derived from the prefix "in-" meaning "not" or "without", and "finitus" meaning "bounded" or "limited". In ancient Latin, "infinitus" referred to something that cannot be measured or defined because it has no limits or boundaries.
2. Regression: The word "regression" comes from the Latin word "regressus", which is derived from the prefix "re-" meaning "back" or "again", and "gressus" meaning "step" or "walk". "Regressus" implies moving back or returning to a previous state or condition.
