This is the belief that life forms can arise from inanimate matter. This theory was

refuted by Francesco Redi.

There is a belief before Francesco Redi, that living organisms might have originated from inanimate matter.

Explanation:

Spontaneous generation is the term generally used to denote a belief that living creatures might have originated from inanimate objects or non living things. In other words, origination of living organisms may not have required any living progenitor, till Scientist Francesco Redi refuted this theory. He performed a series of experiments to prove that there is no such thing like abiogenesis. All living organisms have originated from living matter only regardless of forms.

Answer: Spontaneous generation