An organism is a living body, e.g. an animal or a plant, which consists of various parts, each one of which exists upon the proper functioning of the other parts as well as of the whole. The characteristics of un organism are (i) a union of body and soul, i.e., of material elements and vital forces, (ii) an organic and interdependent unity of each part or member to the whole, (iii) each part or member has its special functions, but they sub serve the common needs of the whole; the functions of a part are for the good of the whole, e.g., the hand or liver works for the common needs and purposes of the whole body, and (iv) the power of growth.<\/p>