TELEOLOGICAL Meaning and
Definition
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Teleological, derived from the Greek words ‘telos’ meaning "end" or "purpose," and ‘logos’ meaning "study" or "reason," is an adjective that pertains to or focuses on the concept of purpose or design. It refers to a philosophical perspective that explains phenomena or events based on their ultimate goal, purpose, or outcome.
In teleological thinking, the understanding of a particular natural or man-made entity is approached by examining its intended or anticipated results and objectives. It suggests that everything in the universe, from the smallest microscopic cells to complex social systems, has a specific purpose or end that governs its existence and guides its development or function.
Teleological explanations often encompass ideas of intentionality, direction, or final cause. They attribute characteristics or traits to entities based on their contribution to a particular function or objective. This perspective can be found in various fields such as biology, theology, and ethics. For instance, teleological reasoning might argue that the purpose of the heart is to pump blood or that the universe was created to support the existence of life.
Critics of the teleological perspective caution against overemphasis on purpose or design, arguing that it may lead to a biased or anthropocentric understanding of natural events. Nevertheless, teleological thinking remains an important aspect of philosophical and scientific inquiry as it offers a lens through which phenomena can be interpreted and understood in relation to their ultimate aims and consequences.
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Relating to or connected with final causes.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TELEOLOGICAL
Etymology of TELEOLOGICAL
The word "teleological" is derived from the Greek words "telos" meaning "end" or "goal" and "logos" meaning "study" or "knowledge". In philosophy, teleology refers to the study of purposes, goals, or ends in nature, with a focus on explaining phenomena by their ultimate purpose or result. The prefix "teleo-" denotes a relation to or concern with ends or goals.
Similar spelling words for TELEOLOGICAL
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