finalism

[ fahyn-l-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. the doctrine or belief that all events are determined by their purposes or goals.

finalism

/ ˈfaɪnəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. philosophy the doctrine that final causes determine the course of all events

Derived Forms

• ˌfinaˈlistic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of finalism¹

First recorded in 1905–10; final + -ism

Example Sentences

This determinism is in the one case what Bergson calls "radical finalism," and in the other "radical mechanism."

From Project Gutenberg

The errors and puerilities of radical finalism are due to the misapprehension of this point.

From Project Gutenberg

M. Bergson's form of finalism depends upon his conception of life.

From Project Gutenberg

The point in Bergson's system which seems least in harmony with theistic belief is his criticism and rejection of finalism.

From Project Gutenberg

Real finalism saves many deaths, many sufferings, and many abortions.

From Project Gutenberg