Which statement best describes the belief of animists?

Animism is a belief system that holds that not only humans but also animals, plants, rocks, and even certain natural phenomena possess spirits or a spiritual essence. This worldview emphasizes a connection and reverence for the natural world, suggesting that all elements of the environment are imbued with life and soul. Therefore, the statement that animists believe all things have a spirit accurately encapsulates their belief system.

In contrast, polytheism involves the worship of multiple gods, and monotheism focuses on the belief in a single deity. Materialism emphasizes a focus on physical or material aspects of existence, often denying spiritual elements. None of these other perspectives align with the essence of animism, which uniquely recognizes the spiritual significance of all entities within the natural world.