The doctrine that all events are determined by external causes is called which term?

Study for the American Literature TISKs Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam with confidence!

Multiple Choice

The doctrine that all events are determined by external causes is called which term?

Explanation:
Determinism is the view that every event is caused by prior events and the laws of nature, so actions are the inevitable outcome of preceding conditions rather than the result of free will. When we describe events as determined by external causes, we’re invoking this cause-and-effect framework that governs all happenings, including human choices. This stands in contrast to nihilism (meaninglessness), cynicism (skepticism about motives), and physicalism (everything is physical). The standard term for the doctrine described is determinism.

Determinism is the view that every event is caused by prior events and the laws of nature, so actions are the inevitable outcome of preceding conditions rather than the result of free will. When we describe events as determined by external causes, we’re invoking this cause-and-effect framework that governs all happenings, including human choices. This stands in contrast to nihilism (meaninglessness), cynicism (skepticism about motives), and physicalism (everything is physical). The standard term for the doctrine described is determinism.

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