humanitarianism

[ hyoo-man-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhmor, often, yoo- ]

noun

1. humanitarian principles or practices.
2. Ethics.
   1. the doctrine that humanity's obligations are concerned wholly with the welfare of the human race.
   2. the doctrine that humankind may become perfect without divine aid.
3. Theology. the doctrine that Jesus Christ possessed a human nature only.

Other Words From

• hu·mani·tari·an·ist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of humanitarianism¹

First recorded in 1825–35; humanitarian + -ism

Example Sentences

"We're trying to combine security with humanitarianism while saving our border in line with EU law," Mr Duszczyk said.

From BBC

The Chinese ministry spokesman, Wang Wenbin, referring to North Koreans who entered illegally for economic reasons, said China had always handled the issue "properly" according to principles of domestic and international law and humanitarianism.

From Reuters

"Humanitarianism in its nature is thankless, it's selfless," she said.

From BBC

While France and other countries used the opportunity to highlight the principles of international law and humanitarianism as reasons to lift the blockade, other delegations — such as Great Britain, which has significant oil investments in the country — held back on condemning Azerbaijan.

From Los Angeles Times

The Biafran airlift is widely considered a watershed moment in international humanitarianism.

From New York Times

Related Words

• altruism
• humaneness
• humanism
• kindheartedness
• kindness
• philanthropy