teleology

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   explanation of phenomena by the ends, purposes, or goals they are said to serve

   The theory rejects teleology and explains the process through prior causes alone.

2. 2
   noun

   the doctrine that nature or history is directed toward a purpose or designed outcome

   The philosopher's teleology treats development as movement toward a fixed goal.

Coined from Ancient Greek telos ("end, purpose") + -logy ("study, account"), through New Latin teleologia and German Teleologie. The philosophical term concerns explanation by final causes rather than preceding efficient causes.

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