Arbitrariness

Arbitrariness refers to the quality of being based on random choice or personal whim, rather than any reason or system. It describes actions, decisions, or outcomes that lack a clear, justifiable basis and are often perceived as unfair or capricious. It suggests a lack of adherence to established rules, standards, or principles, making the outcome unpredictable and potentially discriminatory. Essentially, arbitrariness highlights a situation where decisions are made without logic, consistency, or objective criteria, leaving room for subjective biases and the exercise of unchecked power or influence. This often leads to feelings of injustice, uncertainty, and distrust. It contrasts with notions of fairness, impartiality, and predictability.

Arbitrariness meaning with examples

• The teacher's grading system was criticized for its arbitrariness. Students felt that grades were assigned based on the teacher's personal preferences rather than on objective criteria like performance on tests and assignments. This lack of transparency and consistency created resentment and undermined the educational process, breeding distrust in the grading system's ability to properly reflect student efforts.
• The company's decision to promote John was viewed with arbitrariness by other employees, as his qualifications and performance record did not obviously surpass those of other candidates. The selection seemed based more on personal connections within management, raising questions of favoritism and inequity amongst staff and a perception of an uneven playing field.
• The judge's sentencing of the defendant was deemed as having arbitrariness, as the sentence was significantly harsher than those given in similar cases. There was no clear explanation for this discrepancy, leading to accusations of bias and improper influence. This lack of proportionality created doubts about the judicial integrity and impartiality of the legal system.
• The government's sudden changes to the tax regulations displayed arbitrariness, negatively impacting businesses, and creating significant financial instability and uncertainty in the market. Companies struggled to plan for the future when confronted with inconsistent and poorly explained laws, resulting in a slow down of investment and the possible collapse of numerous industries.
• The artist's choice of colors and shapes in the abstract painting seemed to lack arbitrariness; he claimed they came to him in dreams. Without a readily apparent meaning or purpose, viewers often questioned the artist's intent, though it did invoke a feeling of wonder and mystery, even if many did not understand its context, it did cause the viewer to think and reflect.