probabilism

n 1: 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: the doctrine that (since certainty is unattainable)

probability is a sufficient basis for belief and action

probabilistic

Relating to, or governed by, probability. The

behaviour of a probabilistic system cannot be predicted

exactly but the probability of certain behaviours is known.

Such systems may be simulated using {pseudo-random} numbers.

{Evolutionary computation} uses probabilistic processes to

generate new (potential) solutions to a problem.

See also {deterministic}, {non-probabilistic}.

(1995-09-22)