The word "necessitarian" is spelled with a total of six syllables. The first syllable is pronounced as "ne-" with the /n/ sound, the second syllable as "-ces-" with the /s/ sound, the third syllable is pronounced as "-si-" with the /s/ and /i/ sounds, the fourth syllable being "-tar-" with the /t/ and /ɑ/ sounds, the fifth syllable is "-i-" with the /i/ sound, and the final syllable being "-an" with the /ən/ sound. This word refers to a person who believes that everything happens out of necessity.
Necessitarian is a noun that refers to a person who subscribes to the philosophical doctrine of necessitarianism, which posits that every event, occurrence, or action in the universe is determined by antecedent causes or causal laws. In simpler terms, a necessitarian believes that everything that happens is a result of predetermined factors and cannot occur otherwise.
The term originates from the word "necessity," which implies that events cannot occur in any other way than they do. The doctrine aligns closely with determinism, which states that all events, including human actions, are predetermined by a chain of causality. Necessitarians argue that there is no room for randomness, chance, or free will in the course of events, and all actions are inevitable consequences of preceding circumstances.
Necessitarianism has been a subject of debate among philosophers and theologians throughout history. Opponents argue against the denial of human agency and the potential implication that individuals are not responsible for their actions. On the other hand, proponents contend that necessitarianism provides a comprehensive understanding of the universe and alleviates uncertainties by asserting that everything occurs due to necessary causes.
In summary, a necessitarian is someone who believes that every event is predetermined and occurs as a direct consequence of preceding chain of causes or causal laws.
One who holds the doctrine of philosophical necessity.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "necessitarian" is derived from the Latin term "necessitas", meaning "necessity" or "constraint", and the suffix "-ian", denoting a person who holds a particular belief or adheres to a specific ideology. In this case, "necessitarian" refers to someone who subscribes to or advocates for the philosophical doctrine of determinism or the belief that all events are predetermined and only one outcome is necessary.