Preszumptio

Preszumptio is a term used in philosophy and legal theory to denote an initial assumption accepted for reasoning or adjudication until evidence arises to the contrary. It functions as an inferential starting point that shapes argument and proof, rather than as an established conclusion.

Etymology and usage: The word stems from the Latin presumptio, meaning “assumption” or “taking beforehand.” In some contexts the form preszumptio is used to discuss the same concept, while other languages or texts may employ presumptio or presumption.

In law, preszumptio refers to a presumptive rule that allocates the burden of proof or guides interpretation. A famous example is the presumption of innocence, which treats a defendant as not guilty until proven otherwise. Not all presumptions are the same; some are rebuttable, removing the assumption upon presenting sufficient contrary evidence, while others may be irrebuttable.

In epistemology and science, preszumptio can describe provisional hypotheses or working assumptions used to advance inquiry, with the understanding that they may be revised or discarded as new information becomes available.

Critics warn that presumptions can bias inquiry or encode social or procedural biases; thus preszumptio is typically accompanied by rules specifying when and how the assumption may be challenged, tested, or overturned.

See also: presumption; presupposition; burden of proof.