Teleology

Teleology is the philosophical concept that explains actions or phenomena by their end goals or purposes rather than just their causes. In the context of metaphysics and science, it suggests that some processes in nature are directed toward specific outcomes or fulfill certain functions. Instead of viewing events solely through a lens of cause and effect, teleology considers the “why” behind them, proposing that things happen for a reason or to achieve a particular purpose. This idea can influence various fields, including biology, ethics, and even the philosophy of science, raising questions about intention and design in the natural world.