zoism

Zo´ism

n.	1.	Reverence for animal life or belief in animal powers and influences, as among savages.
	2.	(Biol.) A doctrine, now discarded, that the phenomena of life are due to a peculiar vital principle; the theory of vital force.

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zoism

1. Philosophy. a doctrine that the phenomena of life are controlled by a vital principle, as Bergson’s élan vital.
2. a high regard for animal life.
3. a belief in animal magnetism. — zoist, n. — zoistic, adj.

See also: Life