Spiritism is a philosophical and religious movement that emerged in the mid-19th century through the works of the French educator Allan Kardec. It postulates that humans are immortal spirits that temporarily inhabit physical bodies for several incarnations to achieve moral and intellectual improvement. It also emphasizes the ability to communicate with the spirits of the deceased through mediums to gain insights into the spiritual realm.

Origins: Spiritism was systematized by Allan Kardec in the 1850s, primarily through his books, starting with “The Spirits' Book” published in 1857. This work compiles a series of questions addressed to spirits concerning God, the spirit world, and the nature of the universe, and the spirits' answers to these questions.

Spread and Development: The movement quickly spread across Europe, particularly in France and later to Brazil, which now has the largest number of followers worldwide.

Immortality of the Soul: Spiritism teaches that the soul survives physical death and progresses spiritually through successive reincarnations.

Moral Law: Ethical and moral progress is considered essential for spiritual evolution. Spiritists believe in the natural laws of cause and effect, where one's actions (good or bad) have repercussions in this life and the next.

Communication with Spirits: Spiritism posits that spirits of the dead can communicate with the living, primarily through mediumship, offering guidance and knowledge about spiritual life.

Social Equality and Charity: Spiritism encourages charity and benevolence, advocating for social equality and the moral duty to help those in need, both physically and spiritually.

Mediumship: Mediumship is a practice in Spiritism through which mediums communicate with spirits. Sessions, often called meetings, are held under controlled conditions to receive messages or guidance from the spirit world.

Study Groups: Regular study groups focus on the teachings of Kardec and other spiritual matters to promote understanding and moral improvement.

Healing: Spiritist centers often include spiritist “passe” (energy transfer) sessions and prayers for healing, combining spiritual treatment with conventional medicine.

Integration with Local Cultures: In countries like Brazil, Spiritism has integrated with local religious practices and is involved in various charitable works including hospitals, schools, and social welfare programs.

Art and Literature: Spiritism has influenced numerous works in literature and movies, particularly those that deal with themes of afterlife and spirit communication.

Scientific Scrutiny: Spiritism's claims, particularly concerning mediumship and spirit communication, have been subjects of interest and controversy in scientific fields.

Religious and Philosophical Dialogue: Spiritism often interacts with other religious and philosophical beliefs, advocating for dialogue and mutual understanding among different faiths.

Spiritism is a distinct doctrine that combines elements of religion, philosophy, and science. It aims to bring about not only a deeper understanding of the nature of life and the afterlife but also a practical framework for living an ethical life. Its emphasis on moral development and charitable actions reflects its integral humanitarian outlook.