holism(n = noun.cognition) holistic theory - the theory that the parts of any whole cannot exist and cannot be understood except in their relation to the whole; "holism holds that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts"; "holistic theory has been applied to ecology and language and mental states"
is a kind of theory
Antonym: atomism
Derived form adjective holistic1
holism, n. (also wholism)
1 Philos. the theory that certain wholes are to be regarded as greater than the sum of their parts (cf. REDUCTIONISM).
2 Med. the treating of the whole person including mental and social factors rather than just the symptoms of a disease.
Derivative:
holistic adj. holistically adv.
Etymology:
as HOLO- + -ISM