anarchism

[ an-er-kiz-uhm ]

noun

1. a doctrine urging the abolition of government or governmental restraint as the indispensable condition for full social and political liberty.
2. the methods or practices of anarchists, as the use of violence to undermine government.
3. anarchy.

anarchism

/ ˈænəˌkɪzəm /

noun

1. political theory a doctrine advocating the abolition of government
2. the principles or practice of anarchists

anarchism

1. The belief that all existing governmental authority should be abolished and replaced by free cooperation among individuals.

Notes

Anarchy is sometimes used to refer to any state of chaos or lawlessness.

Other Words From

• pro·anar·chism noun
• semi·anar·chism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of anarchism¹

First recorded in 1635–45; anarch(y) + -ism

Example Sentences

The core belief of anarchism is that government is oppressive and that people will be free only when they can govern themselves directly.

From Literature

At the time of the theft of the Mona Lisa, anarchism in France had a violent tinge.

From Literature

The threat of violent anarchism stalked the French state.

From Literature

Malcolm McLaren settled on anarchism as the philosophy for the Sex Pistols, which were launched as a marketing tool for his fashion shop Sex with Vivienne Westwood in London.

From Los Angeles Times

It is funny that the connection between punk and anarchism is kind of manufactured, but then becomes a popular political movement across the world.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• anarchy
• brawl
• disturbance
• lawlessness
• protest
• storm
• strife
• trouble
• turmoil
• uproar