CultureSeptember 7, 2026

teleology

tel-ee-OL-uh-jee

Definition

The philosophical explanation of phenomena by the purpose they serve rather than by postulated causes; the study of design, order, and goal-directedness in nature.

How do you pronounce teleology?

Teleology is pronounced tel-ee-OL-uh-jee (IPA: //ˌtɛliˈɒlədʒi//).

Listen: how to say teleology

Where does teleology come from?

Derived from the Greek 'telos' meaning 'end' or 'purpose' combined with '-logia' meaning 'study of'. It emerged in modern English philosophy to describe arguments concerning the ultimate purpose of natural or human events.

In the news

The author references St. Thomas Aquinas's teleological proof to illustrate the belief that the purposeful design of the universe points to a Supreme Intelligence. It is used here to connect scientific precision in nature to a divine Creator.

Traversing 5 towns: Lessons of a Sunday pilgrimage

Read the full article ↗

Realnews Magazine

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