What term refers to the belief that living beings possess a special vital force?

The term that refers to the belief that living beings possess a special vital force is indeed vitalism. Vitalism is a philosophical doctrine that posits the existence of a life force outside the physical and chemical processes that govern living beings. According to vitalism, this force is what differentiates living organisms from inanimate matter, suggesting a unique essence or energy inherent in all living things.

In the context of psychology and the history of science, the concept of vitalism was significant because it represented an early attempt to explain life and consciousness in non-mechanical terms, contrasting with the mechanical perspective that attributes all phenomena to physical processes. This idea played a crucial role in debates regarding the nature of life, consciousness, and the implications for psychological practice.

Other terms, such as mechanism, materialism, and empiricism, represent different philosophical approaches. Mechanism emphasizes the idea that all phenomena, including biological processes, can be explained by physical laws and mechanical actions. Materialism focuses on the belief that only matter is real, downplaying or excluding any non-material force. Empiricism stresses knowledge through observation and experience, relying on data rather than inherent life forces. Each of these terms offers a distinct perspective, but it is vitalism that specifically encapsulates the notion of