WordGarden.ioanthropic
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ænˈθrɒp.ɪk/not-comparableadjective
US
- /ænˈθrɑ.pɪk/Canadanot-comparableadjective
Meanings
Proper-noun
the artificial intelligence company Anthropic, known for Claude and related AI systems
Adjective
relating generally to human beings or human activity
relating to the role of human existence or observers in cosmological explanation, especially the anthropic principle
Beyond the definition
The word "anthropic" comes from the Greek word anthropos, meaning "human." It describes anything influenced by, relating to, or characterized by humankind. Think of it as a reminder that we, as humans, leave our mark on everything around us—even things that seem natural!
You might hear about the "Anthropocene," a proposed geological epoch defined by significant human impact on Earth's geology and ecosystems. Or, you could describe a landscape as "anthropic" if it has been heavily modified by agriculture or urbanization. It doesn't necessarily mean good or bad, just that humans have played a role in shaping it. A beautifully designed garden is anthropic, but so is a polluted river.
"Anthropic" refers to anything relating to, influenced by, or resulting from human beings. It is a term often used to highlight the significant impact humanity has on the world around us—both intentionally and unintentionally.
While it can describe physical things like landscapes ("an anthropic environment") or structures ("anthropic artifacts"), it is also used in more abstract contexts. For example, in cosmology, the "anthropic principle" highlights a selection effect: any universe we can observe must be compatible with the existence of observers. Some discussions go further and ask whether the universe’s fundamental constants seem "fine-tuned" for life—but the core idea is simply that our observations are conditioned by the fact that we are here to make them.
In environmental science, the term is often discussed alongside "anthropogenic" (meaning caused by humans). While "anthropic" refers to the general relation to humanity, "anthropogenic" specifically describes the sources of phenomena, such as "anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions" released as a result of human activities.
In the field of artificial intelligence, the word has gained visibility through the research company "Anthropic." In that context, the name evokes a focus on human-centered design—building AI systems that aim to align with human values and preferences. Used this way, the word can serve as a reminder that technology should remain compatible with human well-being.
Examples
- 1
Anthropic principle
Some physicists use the anthropic principle to discuss why the universe allows life to exist.
- Phrasethe anthropic principle
the idea that we can observe only a universe where observers like us are possible
- 2
Scientific argument
He was not convinced by the anthropic argument and wanted a more direct physical explanation.
- 3
Dark energy
In the article, the author suggests that the value of dark energy may be the result of anthropic selection rather than a deeper law.
See also
Similar
- human
- human-related
Shades of meaning
- human-centered
- anthropocentric
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- anthropic principle
- anthropic reasoning
- anthropic bias
Word family
- anthropos
Explore
- observer selection effect
- human perspective
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- anthropicadjective