Final answer:
The term used in philosophy and literary criticism to describe something that mimics the world around you is mimesis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term used in philosophy and literary criticism to describe something that mimics the world around you is mimesis. Mimesis is the representation or imitation of the real world in art and literature. It involves creating a likeness or imitation of reality.
For example, in Plato's Analogy of the Cave, the prisoners who only see the shadows of copies of things are experiencing a form of mimesis. The shadows mimic the real world outside the cave.
In literature, mimesis can be seen in the portrayal of characters, settings, and events that resemble real-life counterparts. It allows readers to connect with the story and understand the human experience.