Definitions for "Eclecticism"
Theory or practice of an eclectic.
Dr. Wooster Beach (1794-1868) originated the Eclectic movement in the US. Beach's goal was to reform medical practices, incorporating many theories into their medical systems -- hence the name Eclectic. Their medicines were often pote nt and given in massive doses, sometimes with unpredictable results.
making decisions on the basis of what seems best instead of following some single doctrine or style
In psychology, the view that more is to be gained by employing concepts and techniques from various theoretical systems than by restricting oneself to a single approach.
A mechanical and/or arbitrary collecting of concepts or facts without any preestablished principles or structures. Eclecticism is often used to attempt to reconcile the irreconcilable such as idealism and materialism.
Keywords:  eclipse
Eclipse Eclipse_a
A movement that helped to determine the orientation of Western architecture during the second half of the nineteenth century. It opposed the rigid models of the academic tradition. Eclecticism manipulated the elements by rearranging the motifs of non European traditions.
In design, the free or rigid adaptation and/or combination of forms and decorations from various countries and periods.
school of medical philosophy based loosely on trying a wide range of competing modalities, based on their efficiency in individual cases.
Keywords:  ancient, see
See Eclecticism (ancient)