reductionism
[ ri-duhk-shuh-niz-uh m ]
/ rɪˈdʌk ʃəˌnɪz əm /
|
noun
the theory that every complex phenomenon, especially in biology or psychology, can be explained by analyzing the simplest, most basic physical mechanisms that are in operation during the phenomenon.
the practice of simplifying a complex idea, issue, condition, or the like, especially to the point of minimizing, obscuring, or distorting it.
Nearby words
Related forms
re·duc·tion·ist, noun, adjectivere·duc·tion·is·tic, adjectiveDictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
Examples from the Web for reductionist
Democrats tend to believe that the facts will set them free, and that spinning them is reductionist.
Republicans Embrace Theatrics—It’s Time for Barack Obama to Do the Same|Sally Kohn|July 20, 2012|DAILY BEASTThe noteworthy difference: In this case, the reductionist rhetoric caricatures fervent supporters rather than staunch critics.
Literate language is a reductionist machine, which we use to look at the world from the perspective of our own experience.
The Civilization of Illiteracy|Mihai Nadin
British Dictionary definitions for reductionist
reductionism
/ (rɪˈdʌkʃəˌnɪzəm) /
noun
the analysis of complex things, data, etc, into less complex constituents
often derogatory any theory or method that holds that a complex idea, system, etc, can be completely understood in terms of its simpler parts or components
Derived Forms
reductionist, noun, adjectivereductionistic, adjectiveCollins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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