Predeterminism is a philosophical concept that refers to the notion that all events and actions are predetermined by a higher power or fate. The word is spelled as /priːdɪˈtɜːmɪnɪzəm/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable is pronounced as "pree" with a long "ee" sound, followed by "di" and "ter". The second syllable has a short "mi" and "ni" sound, and the word ends with "zum". Predeterminism has been a debated topic among philosophers for centuries, seeking to understand the extent of free will against predetermined fate.
Predeterminism refers to the philosophical belief or doctrine that dictates that all events, actions, and outcomes are predestined or predetermined by some external force or entity. This concept posits that everything that happens in the universe, including human actions and choices, has already been decided or planned in advance, and individuals have no true free will or control over their own destinies.
Predeterminism is often associated with theological or religious perspectives that assert the existence of a divine being or an omnipotent force, such as fate, God, or destiny, that has predetermined all events in the world. This notion is also closely linked to the concept of predestination, which suggests that certain individuals or events have been chosen or marked out for specific outcomes or roles.
Within philosophy, predeterminism has been a topic of debate among thinkers throughout history. It contrasts with other philosophical positions like determinism, which argues that events are determined by previous causes but may not necessarily be predetermined. Additionally, it stands in opposition to philosophical viewpoints that advocate for human agency and free will, which propose that individuals have the ability to make choices and shape their own lives regardless of external influences.
Overall, predeterminism asserts that events in the universe are predetermined and fixed, stripping individuals of free will and personal agency in determining their own paths in life.
The word "predeterminism" is derived from two root words: "pre-" and "determine".
1. "Pre-" is a prefix derived from the Latin word "prae", meaning "before" or "in front of".
2. "Determine" comes from the Latin word "determinare", which is a combination of "de-" (indicating completion or intensification) and "terminus" (meaning "boundary" or "limit"). "Determinare" refers to setting bounds or limits, making a decision, or reaching a conclusion.
Combining these roots, "predeterminism" can be understood as the belief or doctrine that events or outcomes are decided or fixed before they occur. It suggests that everything is predetermined or predestined, that there is a predetermined plan or destiny that shapes events.