»Life and the Spirit. On the Genealogy of the Concept of Life Form«: Whenever the concept of life form is used, fundamental ideas of the correct way of acting and thinking resonate. The history of this term goes far back into antiquity and is yet of current relevance. Due to the fact that the concept of life form is hardly ever reflected upon, it needs to be examined in detail. In terms of a >philosophy of life forms<, it is important to raise critical awareness for the challenges of our time and thus to contribute to an understanding and tolerant coexistence.