Systems of parts working together in a machine or process. Can refer to biological, psychological, or social processes that produce particular outcomes.
From Greek 'mekhane' meaning device or machine, through Latin 'mechanismus'. The biological and social meanings developed as scientists began viewing living systems and societies as machine-like.
The concept of biological mechanisms revolutionized medicine - we now understand that diseases often result from broken cellular 'machinery' rather than mysterious forces. This mechanistic view has led to targeted therapies that fix specific molecular mechanisms, like keys fitting precise locks.
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