Naturalism (philosophy)
Naturalism (philosophy)
Naturalism (IPA: /ˈnætʃərəˌlɪzəm/) is a philosophical viewpoint according to which everything arises from natural properties and causes, and supernatural or spiritual explanations are excluded or discounted.
Etymology
The term "naturalism" has been used in English since at least the 19th century. It derives from the philosophical concept of nature.
Overview
Naturalism is not so much a special system as a point of view or tendency common to a number of philosophical and religious systems; not so much a well-defined set of positive and negative doctrines as an attitude or spirit pervading and influencing many doctrines. As the name implies, this tendency consists essentially in looking upon nature as the one original and fundamental source of all that exists, and in attempting to explain everything in terms of nature. Either the limits of nature are also the limits of existing reality, or at least the first cause, if its existence is found necessary, has nothing to do with the working of natural agencies. All events, therefore, find their adequate explanation within nature itself. But, as the dualism of ancient philosophy and modern science alike, as well as the popular faith, found it convenient to keep the realms of the physical and spiritual distinct, naturalism is materialistic in its outlook.
Related Terms
See Also
References
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Naturalism (philosophy)
- Wikipedia's article - Naturalism (philosophy)
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