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

• ˈprobabilist, nounadjective
• ˌprobabilˈistic, adjective
• 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

Nevertheless, as far as I can see, he has sound probabilism on the side that operation is justifiable.

From Project Gutenberg

The next step was to force the confessors to accept their lax interpretation of the law; and this was accomplished by their famous theory of probabilism—first taught in Spain about 1580.

From Project Gutenberg

They were obliged tacitly to confess that their probabilism, or doctrine of probability, was at bottom but doubt, and the absence of all principle.

From Project Gutenberg

The study of the laws of the mind shows us too clearly, in fact, their fluidity with regard to the laws of nature for us not to accept probabilism.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Alban Butler was totally averse to the system of probabilism, and to all assertions that favor laxity in morale.

From Project Gutenberg