Understanding Nonascertainableness: A Philosophical Concept Challenging Determinism

Nonascertainableness is a term used in philosophy, particularly in the context of debates about free will and determinism. It refers to the idea that certain events or outcomes are not predetermined or predeterminable, but rather are open to multiple possible outcomes or interpretations. In other words, nonascertainableness suggests that some things cannot be known or determined with certainty, and their outcome is uncertain or indeterminate.

The concept of nonascertainableness is often used to challenge the idea of determinism, which holds that all events are predetermined by prior causes and are therefore predictable. Nonascertainableness suggests that there may be events or outcomes that are not predetermined and cannot be predicted with certainty, even if we have knowledge of the relevant causal factors.

For example, consider a situation where a person has the freedom to choose between two options. If the outcome of this choice is predetermined, then it would be deterministic, and the person's choice would be merely an illusion of free will. However, if the outcome of the choice is nonascertainable, then it suggests that the person's choice is not predetermined and is truly free.

In summary, nonascertainableness refers to the idea that certain events or outcomes are not predetermined or predictable, and their outcome is uncertain or indeterminate. It challenges the idea of determinism and suggests that there may be events or outcomes that are not predetermined and cannot be predicted with certainty.