Naturalism is a philosophical viewpoint that emphasizes the idea that everything arises from natural properties and causes. It suggests that all phenomena in the universe, including human behavior and thought, can be explained through natural laws and scientific inquiry. This perspective often rejects supernatural explanations, focusing instead on observable and measurable aspects of the world. In literature and art, naturalism refers to a style that aims to depict life accurately and realistically, often highlighting the influence of environment and heredity on individuals. Prominent figures in this movement include authors like Émile Zola and Stephen Crane, who sought to portray the complexities of life without idealization.