PROBABILISM (from

See also:

• LAT

Lat. probare, to test, approve)  , a term used both in theology and in philosophy with the general implication that in the absence of certainty probability is the best criterion . Thus it is applied in connexion with casuistry for the view that the layman in difficult matters of conscience may safely follow a doctrine inculcated by a recognized doctor of the church . This view was originated by the monk Molina (1528-1581), and has been widely employed by the Jesuits . In philosophy the term is applied to that practical doctrine which gives assistance in ordinary matters to one who is sceptical in respect of the possibility of real knowledge: it supposes that though knowledge is impossible a man may rely on strong beliefs in practical affairs . This view was held by the sceptics of the New Academy (see SCEPTICISM and CARNEADES) . Opposed to " probabilism" is " probabiliorism" (Lat. probabilioy, more likely), which holds that when there is a preponderance of evidence on one side of a controversy that side is presumably right .