organicism

[ awr-gan-uh-siz-uhm ]

noun

1. Philosophy. the view that some systems resemble organisms in having parts that function in relation to the whole to which they belong. Compare holism ( def 1 ).
2. Pathology. the doctrine that all symptoms arise from organic disease.
3. a view of society as an autonomous entity analogous to and following the same developmental pattern as a biological organism.

organicism

/ ɔːˈɡænɪˌsɪzəm /

noun

1. the theory that the functioning of living organisms is determined by the working together of all organs as an integrated system
2. the theory that all symptoms are caused by organic disease
3. the theory that each organ of the body has its own peculiar constitution

Derived Forms

• orˌganiˈcistic, adjective
• orˈganicist, nounadjective

Other Words From

• or·gani·cismal or·gani·cistic adjective
• or·gani·cist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of organicism¹

First recorded in 1850–55; organic + -ism

Example Sentences

Take the opening track, "Too Many People," which showcases McCartney's unparalleled pop organicism.

From Salon

The two main authors, heading a team of 18 essay contributors, note that they set out to bust stereotypes of Scandinavians primarily bringing “organicism and naturalism” to America.

From New York Times

The country is the United States — to which they imported, wholesale, a European industrial aesthetic meant to wash away Prairie Style organicism and Art Deco ornament.

From New York Times

In Ms. Leigh’s work, organicism is an aesthetic category.

From New York Times

“She brought form to the organicism and elegance and fluidity that we expect of ceramics today, reaching as many people as possible,” said Paola Antonelli, a curator of architecture and design at the museum.

From New York Times