What is "probabilism"

Probabilism \Prob"a*bil*ism\, n. [Cf. F. probabilisme.] The doctrine of the probabilists.

n. (context theology philosophy English) The doctrine that, in the absence of certainty, probability is the best criterion.

1. n. a Roman Catholic system of casuistry that when expert opinions differ an actor can follow any solidly probable opinion that he wishes even though some different opinion might be more probable

2. (philosophy) the doctrine that (since certainty is unattainable) probability is a sufficient basis for belief and action

In theology and philosophy, probabilism (from Latin probare, to test, approve) refers to an ancient Greek doctrine of academic skepticism. It holds that in the absence of certainty, probability is the best criterion. It can also refer to a 17th-century religious thesis about ethics, or a modern physical-philosophical thesis.