Vitalist: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used in scientific, philosophical, or medical discussions to describe someone who believes in vitalism, the theory that life is governed by a special force beyond physical and chemical processes.

• The researcher, a well-known vitalist, argued that the phenomenon could not be explained by current biological theories.

Animist refers to someone who believes that objects, places, and creatures all possess a distinct spiritual essence. This term is commonly used in the context of discussing indigenous religions and spiritual practices.

• In the remote village, many people are animists, believing that the forest spirits protect their community.

Similar to 'life force proponent,' this term specifically highlights advocacy. It is often used in contexts where individuals are actively promoting or disputing the existence of a vital force in life sciences or alternative medicine.

• The vital force advocate faced criticism from the broader scientific community for her unconventional views.

This phrase is useful in general discussions to refer to someone who advocates for the idea that a non-physical force is essential to life. It can be used in various contexts, such as holistic health, new-age philosophies, or alternative medicine.

• The life force proponent explained the benefits of energy healing to the audience.

Used to describe someone who believes in the theory that life is governed by a vital principle distinct from biochemical reactions.

• He was known as a vitalist due to his writings on the essence of life.
• The vitalist argued that mechanistic explanations were insufficient to understand living organisms.

Used to describe someone who backs the philosophy of vitalism, often in discussions or debates about life sciences or philosophy.

• The panel included a vocal vitalism supporter who challenged the traditional scientific viewpoints.
• She became a vitalism supporter after studying the limitations of reductionist approaches in biology.

Used in a formal or educational setting to refer to someone who supports the idea that a special essence or force drives living beings.

• In his lecture, the professor introduced himself as a life principle advocate.
• The life principle advocate presented compelling arguments at the biology symposium.