PERFECTIBILITY Meaning and
Definition
-
Perfectibility refers to the capacity or potential of an individual, society, or object to continuously improve or reach a state of absolute flawlessness. It is rooted in the belief that there is no inherent limit to human progress and that it is possible to attain continuous advancement and refinement in various aspects of life. The concept of perfectibility can be traced back to the Enlightenment era, particularly associated with the philosophy of thinkers like Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Marquis de Condorcet.
Perfectibility encompasses the idea that humans are not bound by their natural limitations but can evolve intellectually, morally, socially, or technologically through education, experience, and conscious efforts. It implies a perpetual strive towards the ideal or the best possible version of oneself, culture, or society. It is the pursuit of eliminating imperfections, faults, or deficiencies to achieve a state of excellence or moral superiority.
This concept often intersects with ideas of progress, as it suggests that there is always room for improvement and that humans have the ability to transcend their current state. However, perfectibility does not necessarily imply absolute attainment of perfection, as it recognizes that perfection itself may be an unattainable ideal. Instead, perfectibility focuses on the continual endeavor to approach perfection, understanding that improvement can always be made. The notion of perfectibility is particularly prominent in educational, philosophical, and social reform discussions, emphasizing the essential belief in the infinite potential of human beings.
-
Capacity of becoming or being made perfect.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PERFECTIBILITY
Etymology of PERFECTIBILITY
The etymology of the word "perfectibility" can be traced back to the Latin word "perfectus", which means "perfect" or "complete". It is derived from the verb "perficere", meaning "to make perfect" or "to finish". The suffix "-ibility" is added to the root word "perfect", forming a noun to indicate the quality or state of being capable of being made perfect.
Similar spelling words for PERFECTIBILITY
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
