An Indeterminist is a person who believes that events, especially human choices and actions, are not determined by prior causes, but rather involve an element of genuine chance or freedom. They reject the deterministic view that the universe operates according to fixed, predictable laws where every event is causally necessitated by preceding events. Indeterminists often emphasize the role of free will, chance, and the unpredictable nature of reality. They may argue that open possibilities and genuine novelty are fundamental aspects of the world and human experience.
Indeterminist meaning with examples
- The philosopher, an Indeterminist, argued that the universe isn't a giant clockwork machine but a dynamic system where choices and events are open. He believed individuals possess free will, shaping their destiny rather than being pre-programmed puppets. His arguments against determinism focused on the subjective experience of making choices and the impossibility of complete predictability.
- As an Indeterminist, the artist embraced the unpredictable nature of creation. The spontaneity and surprise of chance were central to his artistic method. Rather than attempting to control every aspect of his work, he allowed for unexpected outcomes and embraced the beauty of the unknown. His works often reflected a sense of emergent order from chaos.
- The Indeterminist scientist argued that certain quantum phenomena provide evidence of fundamental indeterminacy at the most basic level of reality. He pointed out that subatomic particles do not have definite properties until they are observed, suggesting an inherent uncertainty at the heart of the universe, which may, therefore, influence the world around them.
- The Indeterminist found the idea of predestination to be antithetical to human dignity. They believed that assigning outcomes based on predetermination undermines the value of human agency and responsibility. Instead, they championed a view of life as a dynamic, open-ended journey, one where individuals actively participate in the shaping of their fates.
- In contrast to the determinists, the Indeterminist felt that moral responsibility is tied with freedom of choice. Without it there would be no consequence and no meaning in the acts. He advocated for a criminal justice system that acknowledged free will, emphasizing rehabilitation rather than solely focusing on punishment, as accountability needs an open ended future.