majoritarianism

[ muh-jawr-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm, -jor- ]

noun

1. rule by a majority, especially the belief that those constituting a simple majority should make the rules for all members of a group, nation, etc.

Word History and Origins

Origin of majoritarianism¹

First recorded in 1960–65; majoritarian + -ism

Example Sentences

I'm deeply concerned by that impulse towards unchecked majoritarianism, and also worried about hypocritical alterations of those feelings when the other side is in power.

From Salon

Rachel Laser, the organization’s president and CEO, told The Washington Times via email, “First Liberty Institute doesn’t promote religious freedom — it advocates for religious majoritarianism. In a country where the religious landscape is rapidly shifting, the America First Liberty seeks is not an America that works for us or an America that most people want.”

From Washington Times

Mr. Modi, now prime minister of India, is attempting to impose a Hindu-led majoritarianism upon the country, including on its school curriculums and textbooks.

From Washington Post

In a recent New York Times column, Jamelle Bouie reflected on the complexities of majoritarianism amid the ongoing democracy crisis:

From Salon

“Singling out hijab for criticism is unfair and discriminatory. Those opposing it are on record decrying secularism and for openly espousing majoritarianism,” said Zakia Soman, founder of a Muslim women’s group, the Bharatiya Muslim Mahila Andolan.

From Seattle Times