possibilism

plural possibilisms

1. countableuncountablegovernmentThe belief that possible things exist, as well as actual things.First known use 1880s

   Antonyms: actualism

2. countableuncountablegeographyThe theory that the geographical environment sets certain constraints, but culture is otherwise determined by social conditions.First known use 1920s
3. countableuncountableAn approach that pragmatically focuses on achievable goals rather than impossible ideals.

   Aim at a standard of adequacy (possibilism) rather than at a standard of perfection (utopianism).

   1970, The Journal of the College & University Personnel Association

4. countablederogatorysometimesuncountableAny of various socialist reform movements.