Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪnˌfælɪˈbɪləti/

Definitions

• The quality of being incapable of making mistakes or being wrong.
• The belief that certain authorities, such as religious leaders or texts, are incapable of error.
• The theological doctrine that certain religious figures, notably the Pope in Catholicism, are free from error in matters of faith and morals.

Usage Examples

• Infallibility in the context of scientific research can be debated, but some argue that the method itself limits human error.
• The infallibility of the Pope is a key principle in Catholic doctrine, particularly in matters of faith.
• Some political systems are built on the perceived infallibility of their leaders, which can result in authoritarian regimes.

Etymology

The term "infallibility" comes from the Latin "infallibilitas," derived from "in-" meaning "not" and "fallibilis," meaning "liable to err." The concept has been prominent in both religious and philosophical discourse, particularly in the context of theological doctrines in Christianity.

Synonyms

• Certainty
• Inerrancy
• Accuracy
• Faultlessness

Antonyms

• Fallibility
• Error-prone
• Faultiness
• Imprecision

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

Infallibility is generally pronounced similarly across various English-speaking regions. However, the phonetic stress and nuances may vary based on accents. Non-English languages may adapt the pronunciation to their phonetic rules, such as the French and Spanish pronunciations.

Historical Usage

The doctrine of infallibility has been central in religious discussions, especially within the Catholic Church, where the Pope is considered to be infallible when making decisions about faith and morals. The concept was formally defined in the First Vatican Council of 1870. Outside of religion, infallibility has been discussed in the context of epistemology and philosophy, particularly in relation to certainty and the nature of truth.

Cultural Nuances

Infallibility is a concept that can be seen both positively and negatively. It can instill a sense of confidence and authority, especially within religious or political contexts. However, it can also be problematic when used to justify authoritarianism or discourage critical thinking. In cultures that value individual opinion and the questioning of authority, the idea of infallibility is often seen with skepticism.

More Information

The concept of infallibility has broad implications across various fields, from theology to law to science. In religion, the concept underpins much of the authority given to religious figures or institutions, and in philosophy, it is a cornerstone of debates surrounding certainty, knowledge, and truth. Infallibility remains a contested idea, especially in contemporary discussions about authority and truth in a rapidly changing world.