probabilism

[ prob-uh-buh-liz-uhm ]

noun

1. Philosophy. the doctrine, introduced by the Skeptics, that certainty is impossible and that probability suffices to govern faith and practice.
2. Roman Catholic Theology. a theory that in cases of doubt as to the lawfulness of an action, it is permissible to follow a sound opinion favoring its lawfulness.

probabilism

/ ˈprɒbəbɪˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. philosophy the doctrine that although certainty is impossible, probability is a sufficient basis for belief and action
2. the principle of Roman Catholic moral theology that in a situation in which authorities differ as to what is the right course of action it is permissible to follow any course which has the support of some authority

Derived Forms

• ˌprobabilˈistic, adjective
• ˈprobabilist, nounadjective
• ˌprobabilˈistically, adverb

Other Words From

• proba·bi·list noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of probabilism¹

From the French word probabilisme, dating back to 1835–45. See probable, -ism

Example Sentences

Again, the doctrine of probabilism is utterly misunderstood.

From Project Gutenberg

Probabilism has to do only with the existence, interpretation, or applicability of a law, not with the differentiation of actions.

From Project Gutenberg

The opinion against a law to permit probabilism must be solid.

From Project Gutenberg

The opinion against a law to constitute Probabilism must be solid.

From Project Gutenberg

The doctrine of Probabilism is connected with the promulgation of law.

From Project Gutenberg