CultureAugust 31, 2026
compatibilism
kuhm-PAT-uh-buh-liz-uhm
Definition
The philosophical belief that free will and determinism are not mutually exclusive and can coexist within the same framework.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'compati', meaning to suffer with or be compatible, combined with the suffix '-ism' to denote a doctrine or system of thought.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe Kenny’s academic attempt to reconcile different concepts of human freedom, an effort ultimately considered unsuccessful by his peers.
Sir Anthony Kenny obituary
Read the full article ↗The Guardian