Élan vital is a philosophical concept introduced by the French philosopher Henri Bergson in the early 20th century. It refers to a vital force or creative impulse that drives the development and evolution of living organisms. Bergson believed that this life force is responsible for the complexity and dynamism of life, distinguishing it from mere mechanical processes. The idea of élan vital contrasts with reductionist views that explain life solely through physical and chemical interactions. Instead, it emphasizes the importance of intuition and creativity in understanding life. This concept has influenced various fields, including philosophy, biology, and literature.