HOLISTIC

Etymology

The term 'holistic' stems from the Greek word 'holos,' meaning 'whole.' It emphasizes the concept that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.

Definition

Holistic refers to an approach that considers the whole system or entity, rather than focusing on individual parts. It emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of various elements within the system.

Historical Context

The idea of holism has roots in ancient Greek philosophy and gained prominence in the 20th century with the development of Gestalt psychology. It is often associated with the concept that 'the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.'

Cultural Significance

Holistic approaches are commonly used in fields such as healthcare, psychology, and environmental science. They focus on treating the entire person or system, taking into account physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects.

Related Concepts

Holistic is closely related to the concept of wholistic, which also emphasizes the importance of considering the whole rather than individual parts. It is used interchangeably in many contexts.

See Also

• Gestalt psychology
• Systems thinking
• Wholistic philosophy