Naturalism in Philosophy

Definition

Naturalism in philosophy is the belief that everything arises from natural properties and causes, and supernatural or spiritual explanations are excluded or discounted. This viewpoint emphasizes that human beings are part of the natural world and that our understanding of reality must be based on observable phenomena and scientific inquiry, which connects to the broader literary movement by focusing on realistic portrayals of life influenced by environment, heredity, and social conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Naturalism emerged in the late 19th century as an extension of realism, with a greater emphasis on scientific observation and understanding of human behavior.
2. Naturalist writers believe that characters are shaped by their environment and heredity, often depicting struggles against forces beyond their control.
3. Prominent naturalist authors include Émile Zola, Stephen Crane, and Frank Norris, who often explored themes of survival and the impact of society on individual fate.
4. Naturalism is rooted in the principles of positivism, which advocates for a strict adherence to observable phenomena in science and philosophy.
5. In literature, naturalism often portrays life's harsh realities, focusing on social issues such as poverty, addiction, and societal constraints.

Review Questions

• How does naturalism in philosophy influence character development in literature?
  • Naturalism in philosophy suggests that characters are heavily influenced by their environment and heredity, meaning their decisions and behaviors can be seen as products of their circumstances rather than free choices. This results in complex characters whose struggles reflect real societal issues. By grounding character motivations in observable realities rather than idealized notions of free will or morality, naturalist literature provides a more authentic representation of human experience.
• Discuss the relationship between naturalism and determinism within philosophical thought.
  • Naturalism and determinism are closely related; while naturalism emphasizes a scientific approach to understanding life, determinism asserts that all events are determined by preceding causes. This means that within a naturalistic framework, human behavior can often be viewed as predetermined by genetic and environmental factors. This relationship challenges traditional notions of moral responsibility and free will, prompting deeper philosophical discussions about agency and accountability.
• Evaluate the impact of naturalism on modern literature and its relevance in contemporary society.
  • Naturalism has significantly impacted modern literature by encouraging writers to delve into realistic portrayals of life influenced by scientific principles. Its emphasis on social issues such as class struggle and environmental challenges remains relevant today as contemporary authors continue to explore these themes. This movement not only shaped literary techniques but also sparked critical discussions about how societal structures affect individuals' lives, making it a vital part of the ongoing discourse in literature and philosophy.

Related terms

Empiricism: A philosophical theory that states that knowledge comes primarily from sensory experience, emphasizing observation and experimentation.

Determinism:

The idea that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes regarded as external to the will, suggesting a lack of free will.

Realism:

A literary movement that focuses on representing everyday life and society as it is, often contrasting with romanticized or idealized portrayals.