Mechanistic: meaning, definitions and examples
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mechanistic
[ mɪˈkænɪstɪk ]
philosophy, science
Mechanistic describes a view of the world where everything can be understood in terms of mechanical processes and interactions. This approach implies that all natural phenomena can be explained by physical laws and principles, often neglecting the role of subjective experience and consciousness.
Synonyms
automaton-like, reductionist.
Examples of usage
- The mechanistic view of biology simplifies complex life processes.
- In a mechanistic approach, the universe is seen as a giant clock.
- Mechanistic explanations can sometimes overlook important psychological factors.
Translations
Translations of the word "mechanistic" in other languages:
🇵🇹 mecanicista
🇮🇳 यांत्रिक
🇩🇪 mechanistisch
🇮🇩 mekanistik
🇺🇦 механістичний
🇵🇱 mechanistyczny
🇯🇵 機械的な
🇫🇷 mécaniste
🇪🇸 mecanicista
🇹🇷 mekanik
🇰🇷 기계적인
🇸🇦 الميكانيكي
🇨🇿 mechanistický
🇸🇰 mechanistický
🇨🇳 机械的
🇸🇮 mekanističen
🇮🇸 vélrænn
🇰🇿 механистік
🇬🇪 მექანისტური
🇦🇿 mexaniki
🇲🇽 mecanicista
Etymology
The term mechanistic originates from the late 18th century, deriving from the word 'mechanism', which refers to a system of parts working together. The root word 'mechanism' itself is derived from the Greek 'mekhane', meaning 'a machine or contrivance'. In the context of philosophy, the mechanistic perspective gained prominence during the Enlightenment, as thinkers like René Descartes and Isaac Newton emphasized the importance of empirical observation and mathematical reasoning when explaining natural phenomena. This contrasted with earlier views, which often incorporated metaphysical and spiritual explanations. Over time, mechanistic thinking has influenced various fields, including biology, physics, and psychology, shaping the development of modern science and fostering the belief that complex systems can ultimately be reduced to simpler components and processes.