In general, a philosophical doctrine holding that every event inevitably follows some antecedent event or events, that the course of nature is rigidly fixed by what has occurred in the past; in particular, that the human will is not free, all volition being the necessary outcome of inherited tendencies, acquired habits, irresistible impulses, under the influence of present circumstances or mental conditions. The will is determined, mechanically, by the strongest motive; it cannot act otherwise. The doctrine does away with responsibility, merit and demerit, right and wrong, morality of any sort.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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