teleology
/ˈtiɫiˌɔɫəˌdʒi/
the explanation of phenomena by the purpose they serve
teleology in a sentence
“Teleology asks what purpose evolution serves.”
Origin of teleology
Greek telos end, purpose + -logia study of
Related Words
determinism
the doctrine that all events are determined by prior causes
solipsism
the view that only one's own mind is sure to exist
existentialism
a philosophy emphasizing individual existence and freedom of choice
utilitarianism
the doctrine that actions are right if they benefit the majority
relativism
the doctrine that knowledge and truth exist only in relation to culture or society
rationalism
a belief or theory that opinions and actions should be based on reason and knowledge