The term "holistic" refers to an approach that considers the whole system rather than just its individual parts. It emphasizes the interconnectedness of various components and how they work together to create a complete picture. In disciplines like medicine, education, and environmental studies, a holistic approach looks at the entire context, including physical, emotional, social, and environmental factors, to promote overall well-being and effectiveness.
The word "holistic" comes from the Greek word "holos," which means "whole" or "entire." The term was popularized in the early 20th century by South African statesman Jan Smuts, who used it to describe the idea that systems should be viewed as wholes and not merely as collections of parts.