Nomology

In philosophy, nomology refers to a "science of laws" based on the theory that it is possible to elaborate descriptions dedicated not to particular aspects of reality but inspired by a scientific vision of universal validity expressed by scientific laws.

Etymology

"Nomology" derives from the Greek νόμος, law, and λόγος, reason. The term nomology may come from Aristotle.^[1] The '-ology' suffix implies 'order', 'word' and 'reason', and is about being subjectively reasonable or 'logical' as in sociology and psychology. The 'nom-' part implies 'rule' and 'law', and is about being objectively lawful or 'nomic' as in economics.

Nomological networks

A nomological approach requires taking account of both subjective and objective aspects in a decision. Nomology provides the framework for building a nomological network of relationships between constructs in decision making.^[2]

See also

• Deductive-nomological model
• Nomological determinism
• Nomothetic

References

1. Aristotle. Selections, Translated with Introduction, Notes, and Glossary by Terence Irwin and Gail Fine, Indianapolis/Cambridge, Hackett Publishing Company, Inc., 1995.
2. Brugha, Cathal MacSwiney (February 2015). "Foundation of Nomology". European Journal of Operational Research. 240 (3): 734–747. doi:10.1016/j.ejor.2014.07.042. – via ScienceDirect (Subscription may be required or content may be available in libraries.)