vitalism

[ vahyt-l-iz-uhm ]

1. the doctrine that phenomena are only partly controlled by mechanical forces, and are in some measure self-determining. Compare dynamism ( def 1 ), mechanism ( def 8 ).
2. Biology. a doctrine that ascribes the functions of a living organism to a vital principle distinct from chemical and physical forces.

vitalism

/ ˈvaɪtəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. See mechanism, dynamism
   the philosophical doctrine that the phenomena of life cannot be explained in purely mechanical terms because there is something immaterial which distinguishes living from inanimate matter Compare dynamism mechanism

Derived Forms

• ˈvitalist, nounadjective
• ˌvitalˈistic, adjective

Other Words From

• vital·ist noun adjective
• vital·istic adjective
• vital·isti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of vitalism¹

First recorded in 1815–25; vital + -ism

Example Sentences

This modern vitalism comprises two essentially different tendencies.

From Project Gutenberg

Once 'mechanism' and 'vitalism' were mutually contradictory theories regarding the ultimate constitution of living bodies.

From Project Gutenberg

This vitalism prevailed until about the middle of the nineteenth century.

From Project Gutenberg

Now, in Spencer, evolution gave us a vitalist mechanic or mechanical vitalism, and the appeal seemed cut off.

From Project Gutenberg

In this way physiology of development would lead us straight on into vitalism.

From Project Gutenberg