The theory that animal functions are dependent upon a special form of energy or force, the vital force, distinct from the physical forces. SYN: vis vitae, vis vitalis. [L. vitalis, pertaining to life]
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vi·tal·ism 'vīt-əl-.iz-əm n
1) a doctrine that the functions of a living organism are due to a vital principle distinct from physicochemical forces
2) a doctrine that the processes of life are not explicable by the laws of physics and chemistry alone and that life is in some part self-determining
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vi·ta·lism (viґtə-liz-əm) [L. vita life] the theory, opposed to mechanism (def. 3), that biological activities are due to a vital force or principle distinct from physical and chemical forces.Medical dictionary. 2011.