probabilism

prob·a·bi·lism  (prb-b-lzm)

n.

1. Philosophy The doctrine that probability is a sufficient basis for belief and action, since certainty in knowledge is unattainable.

2. Roman Catholic Church The system of moral theology that applies when the lawfulness of an act is uncertain, by allowing an actor to follow an opinion favoring personal liberty if that opinion is solidly probable, even though an opposing opinion, favoring law, is more probable.

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proba·bi·list adj. & n.

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probabilism

the doctrine, introduced by the Skeptics and influential in the seiences and social sciences in modified form, that certainty is impossible and that probability suffices to govern belief and action. — probabilist, n. — probabilistic, adj.

See also: Philosophy

Thesaurus

Noun	1.	probabilism - a Roman Catholic system of casuistry that when expert opinions differ an actor can follow any solidly probable opinion that he wishes even though some different opinion might be more probable casuistry - moral philosophy based on the application of general ethical principles to resolve moral dilemmas
	2.	probabilism - (philosophy) the doctrine that (since certainty is unattainable) probability is a sufficient basis for belief and action philosophy - the rational investigation of questions about existence and knowledge and ethics philosophical doctrine, philosophical theory - a doctrine accepted by adherents to a philosophy