ideology

[ahy-dee-ol-uh-jee, id-ee-]

noun

plural

ideologies 

1. the body of doctrine, myth, belief, etc., that guides an individual, social movement, institution, class, or large group.

2. such a body of doctrine, myth, etc., with reference to some political and social plan, as that of fascism, along with the devices for putting it into operation.

3. Philosophy.

   1. the study of the nature and origin of ideas.

   2. a system that derives ideas exclusively from sensation.

4. theorizing of a visionary or impractical nature.

ideology

/ ˌaɪdɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl, ˌaɪdɪˈɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. a body of ideas that reflects the beliefs and interests of a nation, political system, etc and underlies political action

2. philosophy sociol the set of beliefs by which a group or society orders reality so as to render it intelligible

3. speculation that is imaginary or visionary

4. the study of the nature and origin of ideas

ideology

1. A system of beliefs or theories, usually political, held by an individual or a group. Capitalism, communism, and socialism are usually called ideologies.

Other Word Forms

• ideological adjective
• ideologically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of ideology¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; ideo- + -logy

Example Sentences

There are moments of clarity, and although they usually have nothing to do with issues of policy or ideology to us, such moments do arrive.

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It’s still short-sighted, Erin argued: “There’s no amount of ‘pick me’ that’s going to save you or insulate you from the core ideology of these people.

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Prosecutors on Thursday told the court that Wassim Al M. had "internalised IS ideology, rejected the Western way of life, and was convinced that a holy war against infidels must be waged worldwide".

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It’s a myth designed to promote divisive far-right ideologies.

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But says that, "Terrorists attack all who reject their murderous ideology - Muslims, Christians and those of no faith alike".

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Related Words

• creed 
• culture 
• dogma 
• outlook 
• philosophy 
• theory 
• view