Fatalism is the philosophical view that
All events are predetermined by fate or destiny, rendering human effort futile and free will nonexistent. It posits that future outcomes are fixed, meaning choices and actions cannot alter what will inevitably happen. It often results in resigned acceptance of events.
Core Principles of Fatalism
- Inevitability: Events are fated and outside human control.
- Futile Action: Human efforts, choices, or interventions cannot change the future.
- Resignation: The appropriate response to the inevitability of future events is acceptance rather than resistance, say the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
Types of Fatalism
- Logical Fatalism: Stemming from Aristotle, this view argues that because statements about the future are either true or false now, the future is already fixed.
- Theological Fatalism: Tied to the belief in an omniscient God, it claims that if God knows what you will do, you lack the freedom to act otherwise.
- Fatalistic Attitude: A general sense of resignation that “what will be will be,” regardless of one’s actions, notes the Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy.
Fatalism vs. Related Concepts
- Fatalism vs. Determinism: While determinism suggests everything is caused by prior events, it allows that human actions are part of that causal chain, as described in this YouTube video. Fatalism asserts that events are fixed regardless of the causal chain.
- The “Idle Argument”: An ancient critique that says if an event is fated, it will occur whether you act or not (e.g., if you are fated to recover from illness, you will, regardless of calling a doctor)
Psychological Impact
Fatalism can have mixed effects on individuals, as detailed on Verywell Mind
- Positive: Accepting lack of control can reduce anxiety and create higher life satisfaction for some, especially in religious contexts.
- Negative: It can lead to hopelessness, depression, and a lack of effort in improving one’s life.