naturalism
UK: ˈnætʃrəlɪzəm | US: ˈnætʃrəlɪzəm
n. A philosophical and artistic movement emphasizing observation of the natural world, often rejecting supernatural explanations.
n. The practice of depicting nature realistically in art or literature.
n. The belief that only natural laws and forces operate in the world.
naturalism = natural<relating to nature> + ism<doctrine or belief>
- natural: Derived from Latin natura (nature), via Old French naturel.
- ism: A suffix from Greek -ismos, denoting a system, theory, or practice.
Etymology Origin:
The term emerged in the 19th century, combining natural (rooted in the Latin natura, meaning "birth, constitution, or the physical world") with -ism (a suffix for ideologies). It reflects a shift toward scientific empiricism, where art and philosophy sought to mirror nature's unadorned reality. The morphemes logically merge to signify "the doctrine of nature."
Naturalism in literature focuses on portraying life with scientific objectivity.
The painter’s naturalism captured every detail of the forest.
His philosophy leaned toward naturalism, rejecting metaphysical explanations.
Zola’s novels are celebrated for their gritty naturalism.
Critics argue that naturalism overlooks the spiritual dimensions of human experience.