ScienceJuly 15, 2026

tenet

/ˈtɛnɪt/

Definition

A fundamental principle, belief, or doctrine held to be true by a specific group, organization, or system of thought.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'tenet', meaning 'he holds', which is the third-person singular present indicative of 'tenere' (to hold). It entered English in the 16th century to describe a principle held as truth by a person or group.

In the news

The article refers to the 'precautionary principle' as a core tenet of environmental law, arguing that it should prevent companies from using scientific uncertainty to avoid taking climate action.

Scientific uncertainty in forward-looking climate change litigation

Read the full article ↗

The London School of Economics and Political Science

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