Naturalism

/ˈnæʧ.ər.əl.ɪ.zəm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A theory or belief that everything arises from natural properties and causes, and supernatural or spiritual explanations are excluded or discounted.

The author’s work embodies the principles of naturalism, emphasizing the role of environment and heredity in shaping human behavior.

A movement in literature and art that seeks to depict the realities of life without idealization, often associated with realism.

Naturalism in art can be seen in the detailed landscapes that reflect the true appearance of nature without embellishment.

A philosophical viewpoint which asserts that all phenomena can be explained in terms of natural causes and laws.

His philosophy of naturalism led him to reject metaphysical claims that are not grounded in observable reality.

Derived from the word 'nature' combined with the suffix '-ism' denoting a doctrine or theory.

naturalistic observation

A research method in which subjects are observed in their natural environment.

naturalistic fallacy

The belief that what is natural is inherently good or right.

realism

A style in art and literature that focuses on depicting subjects as they really are.

empiricism

The theory that knowledge is derived from sense-experience.

materialism

The doctrine that nothing exists except matter and its movements and modifications.

A down-to-earth attitude or perspective.

Her naturalism about life helps her stay grounded when things get tough.