voluntarism

[ vol-uhn-tuh-riz-uhm ]

noun

1. Philosophy. any theory that regards will as the fundamental agency or principle, in metaphysics, epistemology, or psychology.
2. the principle or practice of supporting churches, schools, hospitals, etc., by voluntary contributions or aid instead of relying on government assistance.
3. any policy or practice based on voluntary action.

voluntarism

/ ˈvɒləntəˌrɪzəm /

noun

1. philosophy the theory that the will rather than the intellect is the ultimate principle of reality
2. a doctrine or system based on voluntary participation in a course of action
3. the belief that the state, government, and the law should not interfere with the procedures of collective bargaining and of trade union organization
4. another name for voluntaryism

Derived Forms

• ˌvoluntaˈristic, adjective
• ˈvoluntarist, nounadjective

Other Words From

• volun·ta·rist noun adjective
• volun·ta·ristic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of voluntarism¹

First recorded in 1830–40; voluntar(y) + -ism

Example Sentences

"The spirit of that voluntarism will not remain if the government hurts the sentiments of the people," says Sonam Wangchuk, an engineer, innovator and climate activist, who has worked for years to address local community needs.

From BBC

You also write about alternatives to the individualist culture, like worker cooperatives and other kinds of voluntarism.

From Salon

First, in providing me a reassurance that essential virtues, values and voluntarism still thrive, at least in some places.

From Washington Post

Yet the third month of war finds Russia, not the United States, struggling under an unprecedented hacking wave that entwines government activity, political voluntarism and criminal action.

From Washington Post

“The Russian leadership proves once again Moscow’s voluntarism to point the gun at our common European security at any moment they want,” said Ukraine’s representative, Yevhenii Tsymbaliuk.

From New York Times