anthropic principle

noun

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Definition of anthropic principle

: either of two principles in cosmology:

a : conditions that are observed in the universe must allow the observer to exist

— called also weak anthropic principle

b : the universe must have properties that make inevitable the existence of intelligent life

— called also strong anthropic principle

Examples of anthropic principle in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Thus, Smolin’s cosmological natural selection might account for the anthropic principle, the idea that cosmological theories of the universe must necessarily allow for human existence. — Quanta Magazine, "Did the Chicken Come First or Is It Turtles All the Way Down?," 6 Feb. 2020 Neither does the multiverse concept or the anthropic principle, which purport to explain why our particular universe has certain physical parameters. — Peter Byrne, Quanta Magazine, "Waiting for the Revolution," 24 May 2013

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'anthropic principle.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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“Anthropic principle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anthropic%20principle. Accessed 16 Apr. 2021.

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