Explore the meaning, etymology, and cultural significance of the phrase 'all other things being equal,' tracing its roots from the Latin 'ceteris paribus' to its contemporary usage.
The phrase “all other things (else) being equal” is employed to indicate a situation in which all other variables or circumstances remain constant, allowing for a specific factor to be examined or evaluated in isolation. It is often used in theoretical discussions, particularly in economics and philosophy, to simplify complex scenarios by assuming that all other factors do not change.
The origins of this phrase can be traced to the Latin term ceteris paribus, which directly translates to “other things being equal.” This Latin expression has been utilized since antiquity, particularly in philosophical and economic texts, to facilitate discussions by isolating variables. Eric Partridge, a noted lexicographer, suggested that the Latin form had become a cliché by the eighteenth century, with its English equivalent gaining prominence in the late nineteenth century. The esteemed historian Thomas Babington Macaulay employed a variant of this phrase in his History of England (1849–61), demonstrating its use in scholarly discourse: “All other circumstances being supposed equal…”
The phrase functions as a conditional clause, often preceding a statement that explores the implications of a particular variable when other influencing factors are held constant. Its semantic utility lies in its ability to simplify complex analyses, making it a valuable tool in disciplines that require theoretical modeling, such as economics and logic. The phrase can be interpreted as an invitation to consider hypothetical scenarios, thereby facilitating clearer understanding and debate.
In contemporary culture, “all other things being equal” is frequently encountered in academic and professional settings, particularly in fields that demand rigorous analysis and modeling. It is less commonly used in casual conversation, given its formal and somewhat technical nature. The phrase is often employed in literature and academic writing to articulate hypotheses or to frame arguments that rely on controlled conditions.
The phrase’s application varies across disciplines:
The phrase “all other things being equal” remains relevant in contemporary discourse, particularly within academic and professional circles that require precise and controlled analysis. Its durability is rated as ★★★★☆, reflecting its sustained utility and adaptability across various fields of study.
“All other circumstances being supposed equal…” - Thomas Babington Macaulay, History of England (1849–61)