The term "proximate principles" refers to the major components that make up a food. The spelling of this word can be broken down using IPA phonetic transcription. "Proximate" is pronounced /ˈprɒksɪmət/, with the stress on the first syllable. "Principles" is pronounced /ˈprɪnsɪpəlz/ with the stress on the second syllable. The word is commonly used in nutrition and food science to refer to the primary macronutrients found in food, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Understanding the concept of proximate principles is essential for those working in the field of food science and nutrition.
Proximate principles refer to the fundamental laws or rules that govern the immediate causes or mechanisms responsible for various phenomena in a specific domain, whether it be in science, biology, economics, or other fields of study. These principles are regarded as the more immediate or direct explanations for how and why something occurs, as opposed to the ultimate or underlying principles that provide a more general or overarching understanding.
In scientific contexts, proximate principles are often used to explain the immediate physiological or biological mechanisms that underlie specific behaviors or functions. For example, in the field of animal behavior, proximate principles might involve explaining how certain hormonal changes in an organism trigger a specific behavior, or how an organism's sensory perception leads to certain responses.
In economics, proximate principles might be employed to elucidate the immediate causes of market fluctuations or economic phenomena, such as changes in supply and demand, consumer behavior, or market competition.
It is important to note that proximate principles provide a more immediate explanation for phenomena within a specific context, and may not address the deeper or ultimate underlying explanations. However, they are crucial for understanding the more immediate causes and mechanisms at play in various phenomena. By studying and identifying proximate principles, researchers can gain insight into the more tangible and immediate factors contributing to a particular phenomenon.
Organic substances entering into the formation of living matter; those of the animal body are various proteins, albuminoids, fats, and carbohydrates, which, in conjunction with each other and with certain minerals, inorganic salts, and water, constitute the various tissues.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
In chem., distinct compounds which exist ready formed in animals, as albumen, fat, &c., and in vegetables, as sugar, starch, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The etymology of the term "proximate principles" can be understood by breaking down the two individual words: "proximate" and "principles".
1. Proximate: The word "proximate" is derived from the Latin word "proximatus", which means "nearest" or "closest". It comes from the verb "proximare", meaning "to approach" or "to go near". In English, "proximate" is used to refer to something that is close, immediate, or nearest in terms of position, order, time, or relationship.
2. Principles: The word "principles" is derived from the Latin word "principium", which means "beginning" or "first part". It comes from the noun "princeps", meaning "first" or "chief".