“Basically correct” and why “predetermined” is too strong

“Basically correct”

Basically means:

correct in its main idea, while possibly requiring qualification or refinement.

understanding of institutional support is basically correct if one correctly recognizes that support can come from:

governments;

corporations;

wealthy individuals;

foundations;

other institutions.

But the inference from support to predetermination requires more evidence.

Why “predetermined” is strong

“Predetermined” literally suggests:

determined in advance.

For example:

“The conclusion was predetermined before the research began.”

That implies a very high degree of control.

If a foundation merely says:

“We fund research on renewable energy,”

that does not mean:

“We determine what every researcher will conclude.”

The foundation may influence the topic without determining the answer.

That is why “predetermined” is too strong unless one has evidence of substantial control.