TELEONOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Teleonomy is a concept in biology that refers to the goal-directedness or purposefulness observed in the behavior and organization of living organisms. It describes the tendency of living systems to exhibit behaviors that are directed towards achieving specific objectives or goals. The term combines two Greek words – "teleos," meaning end or goal, and "nomos," meaning law or rule.
In teleonomy, the behavior and organization of living organisms are described in terms of their apparent purpose or adaptation to their environment. This concept implies that living organisms possess a certain degree of autonomy and the ability to organize their own behavior in a way that promotes their survival, reproduction, or other specific objectives.
Teleonomy stands in contrast to teleology, which suggests the existence of an external, guiding force or purpose behind the behavior and organization of living organisms. Unlike teleological explanations that often involve supernatural or metaphysical concepts, teleonomy is rooted in the principles of evolution and natural selection.
The concept of teleonomy has been particularly influential in the field of evolutionary biology, where it helps explain the complex adaptations observed in organisms. By considering the processes of natural selection and adaptation, teleonomy provides a framework for understanding how living organisms display purposeful and goal-directed behavior, without the need to invoke external design or intention.
Common Misspellings for TELEONOMY
- tleonomy
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- geleonomy
- yeleonomy
- 6eleonomy
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- telwonomy
- telsonomy
- teldonomy
- telronomy
Etymology of TELEONOMY
The term "teleonomy" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "telos" (τέλος), meaning "end" or "goal", and "nomos" (νόμος), meaning "law" or "rule".
In biology, the concept of teleonomy refers to the idea that organisms exhibit purposive behavior or goal-directed actions. It suggests that living organisms are governed by an inherent purpose or goal, which guides their behavior and determines their actions. The term was coined by the biologist Ernst Mayr in 1961, who contrasted it with "teleology", which implies the existence of an external purpose or intention in organisms.
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