Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

voluntarism

noun

/ˈvɒl.ənˌtær.ɪ.zəm/

Definition

The principle that the will is fundamental in the development of behavior, particularly in moral and ethical decision-making.

Examples

The concept of voluntarism is important in discussions of free will and moral responsibility.
Many organizations promote voluntarism as a way to encourage community involvement and personal agency.

Meaning

Voluntarism refers to a philosophy that emphasizes the role of the individual’s will or choice in shaping their actions and decisions, often contrasting with deterministic views where actions are seen as predefined by external factors.