nonmechanistic

Nonmechanistic refers to explanations or theories that do not rely on a purely mechanistic, reductionist view of natural phenomena. In the philosophy of science, it contrasts with mechanistic explanations that trace phenomena to interacting parts and laws of physics. Nonmechanistic approaches may emphasize emergent properties, teleology or purpose, information, systemic constraints, or historical context.

In biology and life sciences, nonmechanistic ideas appear in discussions around vitalism, autonomy of organisms, and the view that some biological features arise from organization and networks beyond simple mechanical causation. Modern related perspectives include systems biology and cybernetics, which stress feedback, network structure, and information flow rather than solely mechanical interactions.

In psychology and cognitive science, nonmechanistic accounts include enactivism and phenomenology, which focus on embodied experience, intentionality, and meaning, arguing that mental states cannot be fully explained by neural mechanisms alone.

In philosophy and social sciences, nonmechanistic approaches emphasize historical, social, normative, or holistic factors. Some strands of pragmatism, phenomenology, and critical realism advocate explanations that resist reduction to causal mechanisms.

Criticism of nonmechanistic positions often centers on concerns about falsifiability and empirical grounding, while proponents argue that reductionist methods miss crucial levels of organization. Many disciplines adopt pluralistic or integrative models that combine mechanistic and nonmechanistic elements.

See also emergence, holism, reductionism, systems theory, vitalism, teleology, enactivism.