What is Probabilism in Philosophy
Probabilism is a philosophical current that is based on the idea that probability is the appropriate criterion for making decisions. This current emerged in the XNUMXth century and developed mainly in the field of ethics and theory of knowledge. Probabilism argues that, faced with uncertain situations, we should act according to the highest probability, even if we are not absolutely sure about the veracity of this probability.
Origin and development of probabilism
Probabilism had its origins in the moral and theological theory of the Catholic Church. In the XNUMXth century, theologians such as Luis de Molina and Francisco Suárez began to develop the idea that, in certain situations, it is permissible to act in accordance with a probable opinion, even if there are other equally probable opinions. This idea was adopted by many Jesuits and spread throughout Europe.
Principles of probabilism
Probabilism is based on some fundamental principles. The first of these is the principle of freedom of opinion. According to this principle, each individual has the right to form his or her own opinion, as long as that opinion is probable. Furthermore, probabilism argues that probability is the appropriate criterion for making decisions. This means that, faced with several equally probable opinions, we must act according to the most probable opinion.
Criticisms of probabilism
Despite having been an influential philosophical current, probabilism also received criticism from several philosophers. One of the main criticisms is that probabilism can lead to a lack of moral responsibility. After all, if we act according to the most probable opinion, even if that opinion is merely probable, we may be acting irresponsibly and negligently.
Probabilism and ethics
In the field of ethics, probabilism raises interesting questions. For example, if an action is likely to be morally right but is also likely to be morally wrong, which action should we choose? Probabilism argues that we should choose the action most likely to be morally correct. However, this approach can generate complex ethical dilemmas.
Probabilism and theory of knowledge
In the theory of knowledge, probabilism also plays an important role. He questions the idea that we can be absolutely certain about something. According to probabilism, even if we are not absolutely certain about the veracity of a proposition, we can act according to the highest probability. This means that knowledge does not have to be absolute, but can be based on probabilities.
Applications of probabilism
Probabilism has several practical applications. For example, in the field of medicine, doctors often have to make decisions based on uncertain information. In these cases, probabilism can be a useful tool to assist in decision making. Furthermore, probabilism is also applied in areas such as economics, politics and psychology.
Probabilism and the free will debate
Probabilism is also related to the philosophical debate about free will. According to probabilism, even if there are several equally probable options, we have the freedom to choose one of them. This means that, even when faced with uncertain circumstances, we can exercise our free will and make decisions.
Probabilism and determinism
Probabilism is also opposed to determinism, which argues that all actions are determined by prior causes. According to probabilism, even if there are prior causes that influence our actions, we still have the freedom to choose an action among several equally probable options.
Conclusion
Probabilism is a philosophical current that is based on the idea that probability is the appropriate criterion for making decisions. Despite having received criticism, probabilism has practical applications in several areas and raises interesting questions in the field of ethics and theory of knowledge. By considering probability as a guide to action, probabilism invites us to reflect on uncertainty and freedom of choice.
