Definition

The belief in philosophy that everything that exists is physical and can be explained by physical processes.

Example

Physicalism argues that mental states are ultimately physical states.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of physicalism in philosophy?

Yeah, it's the idea that everything that exists is ultimately physical, right?

Exactly! It's interesting how it tries to reduce everything to just physical properties.

Totally, it really changes how we think about reality.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Physicalism → It is formed from "physikos" (meaning natural) and "-ism" (meaning a doctrine or belief). The word refers to the doctrine that everything is physical or that all phenomena can be explained in terms of physical processes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'natural' ('physikos') to remember that 'physicalism' is the belief that everything can be explained through physical processes.

Visually Confused Words