Eklekticism

Eclecticism is a methodological stance that emphasizes drawing on multiple sources or styles rather than adhering to a single system. The term comes from the Greek eklektikos, meaning "select" or "chosen," and its modern usage spans philosophy, art, architecture, religion, and medicine. In philosophy, eclecticism refers to the practice of integrating ideas from different schools to form a coherent view, often with an emphasis on practical adequacy rather than strict doctrinal purity.

Historically, eclecticism appeared in various forms. In philosophy, it has roots in ancient and medieval syncretism but gained prominence in early modern and 19th-century thought as scholars sought to combine insights from rationalism, empiricism, and other traditions. In the arts and architecture, eclectic style became common in the 19th century, mixing elements from Classical, Gothic, and Renaissance motifs to create new, context-sensitive works.

In religion and theology, eclectic approaches pick doctrines from different traditions to address contemporary concerns, sometimes leading to syncretic belief systems. In medicine, eclecticism referred to a historical practice that combined herbal remedies with conventional medicines.

Advantages include pragmatic flexibility, openness to diverse perspectives, and the ability to adapt to new problems. Criticisms center on a potential lack of theoretical coherence, the risk of inconsistent or cherry-picked elements, and charges of relativism or superficiality.

See also: syncretism, eclectic architecture, eclectic philosophy.