VITALISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Vitalism, in the realm of philosophy and biology, refers to the belief or doctrine that living organisms possess a mysterious force or vital principle that distinguishes them from inanimate matter. The term "vitalism" is derived from the Latin word "vita," which means life. This concept suggests that life and its diverse processes cannot be solely explained by chemical and physical laws but require the presence of an additional and non-material component.
Historically, vitalism originated in opposition to mechanistic views that reduced all aspects of life to purely mechanistic or materialistic explanations. Vitalists argue that there is an inherent holistic and sometimes even metaphysical nature within organisms that cannot be reduced to the sum of their individual parts.
Vitalism encompasses various theories and beliefs, ranging from specific vital forces guiding biological processes to broader notions of an organizing principle that permits complex living systems to exist and function. It often intertwines with the concept of a life force, or vital force, which is thought to reside within living beings. This vital force is proposed to be responsible for growth, development, and self-sustaining activities that cannot be explained solely through known physical and chemical processes.
While vitalism was prominent in ancient and medieval biology, the rise of modern science and reductionism led to its decline in mainstream scientific thought. The introduction of new discoveries and greater understanding of biological mechanisms provided more comprehensive explanations for vital processes, largely discrediting the need for a separate vital force or principle. However, some remnants of vitalism can still be found in alternative and holistic approaches to medicine and biology.
-
The theory that all animal functions are dependent upon a special form of energy or force, the vital force, distinct from any other of the physical forces.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for VITALISM
Etymology of VITALISM
The word "vitalism" originates from the Latin word "vita", meaning "life". It was first coined in English in the mid-18th century and derives from the Latin adjective "vitalis", meaning "related to life" or "pertaining to life". The suffix "-ism" is added to indicate a belief system, doctrine, or theory. Therefore, "vitalism" refers to the theory or doctrine of vital forces or life principles that are distinct from physical and chemical processes.
Similar spelling words for VITALISM
- vital sign,
- fidelism,
- vitalist,
- vidales,
- neo-feudalism,
- feudalism,
- vitalize,
- vitalise,
- fetalism,
- Electro-vitalism,
- vitalizer,
- vitiligo,
- vitaliser,
- fatalism,
- fidelismo,
- fuddlesome,
- vitalizing,
- vitals.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
