Definition: Teleology

Etymology

From Ancient Greek τέλος or télos (purpose), genitive τέλεος or téleos, and λόγος or lógos (word, speech, discourse).

Noun

teleology (countable and uncountable, plural teleologies)

1. (philosophy) The study of the purpose or design of natural occurrences.
   1. An instance of such a design or purpose, usually in natural phenomena.
   2. The use of a purpose or design rather than the laws of nature to explain an occurrence.

Related terms

• teleologic
• teleological
• teleologically
• teleologist

Credits

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