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Organicism, also known as organicism or organic theory, is a philosophical perspective that views society or any organized system as analogous to a living organism. This analogy suggests that different parts of society, like organs in a body, have specialized functions and are interdependent, working together for the survival and well-being of the whole.

In organicism, societal structures and institutions are seen as developing and evolving organically over time, much like biological organisms. Social change is often understood as a process of growth and adaptation, where the system adjusts to internal and external pressures. This perspective emphasizes the importance of social cohesion, stability, and the maintenance of order, as disruptions to one part of the system can affect the entire organism.

Historically, organicist ideas have been applied in various fields, including sociology, political science, and biology. Early sociologists like Herbert Spencer used the organic analogy to explain social evolution and differentiation. In political thought, organicism can lead to an emphasis on the collective good over individual rights, viewing the state or society as a primary entity to which individuals belong and serve. Critiques of organicism often point to its potential to justify authoritarianism or to oversimplify the complexities of human agency and social interaction. The analogy can also be seen as deterministic, downplaying the role of conscious human action and social conflict in shaping societies.