activism

[ ak-tuh-viz-uhm ]

noun

1. the doctrine or practice of vigorous action or involvement as a means of achieving political or other goals, sometimes by demonstrations, protests, etc.
2. Philosophy.
   1. a theory that the essence of reality is pure activity, especially spiritual activity, or process.
   2. a theory that the relationship between the mind and the objects of perception depends upon the action of the mind.

activism

/ ˈæktɪˌvɪzəm /

noun

1. a policy of taking direct and often militant action to achieve an end, esp a political or social one

Derived Forms

• ˈactivist, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of activism¹

From the German word Aktivismus, dating back to 1905–10. See active, -ism

Example Sentences

As the government has cracked down on social activism, state media coverage has also declined.

From Los Angeles Times

By grounding her activism in history, she was ensuring that past injustices would not be repeated.

From Los Angeles Times

Grassroots activism can push back, lean in and go high when others go low.

From Los Angeles Times

I nourish a sense of satisfaction with the simple accomplishments of the day; getting up early, making coffee for my mom and me, walking, performing some activism, reminding myself that “movement of the muscles overcomes the defeatist babble of the brain.”

From Salon

Since then, he has largely turned to conservative activism and punditry.

From BBC

Related Words

• advocacy
• involvement
• militancy