teleonomy
English edit
Etymology edit
From teleo- + -nomy. Coined by biologist Colin Pittendrigh in 1958, who wanted to limit the much older term "teleology" to actions planned by an agent who can internally model alternative futures with intention, purpose and foresight.
Pronunciation edit
Noun edit
teleonomy (usually uncountable, plural teleonomies)
- (evolutionary theory) The quality of living organisms of seeming to be organized towards the attainment of an end.
Derived terms edit
Related terms edit
Translations edit
quality of living organisms
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