WordValeideology
a system of ideas underlying political action
In more detail
1. (noun) a system of ideas and beliefs that a person, group, or political party holds, especially about government and society
2. (noun) the ideas and beliefs that strongly influence how someone thinks and behaves
Examples
- 1. The political parties in the country have very different ideologies about how to organize the economy.
- 2. Her ideology emphasized the importance of individual freedom and responsibility.
How to use ideology
Ideology refers to a comprehensive system of beliefs and values that shapes how people understand society and politics. It often carries a neutral tone, though in some contexts it can imply a rigid or dogmatic set of beliefs that may distort reality. Unlike 'philosophy' which is broader, ideology is typically tied to social, political, or economic systems and group identity.
Common phrases
- political ideology
- dominant ideology
- ideological differences
- ideology of capitalism
- cling to an ideology
- based on ideology
Synonyms
belief system · doctrine · worldview · philosophy · political system
Word family
ideological · ideologically · ideologue
A common mistake
Learners often use 'ideology' and 'opinion' interchangeably, but ideology is a systematic framework of interconnected beliefs, while opinion is a single view on a specific matter.
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