paternalism

[ puh-tur-nl-iz-uhm ]

noun

1. the system, principle, or practice of managing or governing individuals, businesses, nations, etc., in an outwardly benevolent, but often condescending or controlling way:

   The employees objected to the paternalism of their former boss.

paternalism

/ pəˈtɜːnəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the attitude or policy of a government or other authority that manages the affairs of a country, company, community, etc, in the manner of a father, esp in usurping individual responsibility and the liberty of choice

Derived Forms

• paˌternalˈistically, adverb
• paˈternalist, nounadjective
• paˌternalˈistic, adjective

Other Words From

• pa·ter·nal·ist noun adjective
• pa·ter·nal·is·tic [p, uh, -tur-nl-, is, -tik] adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of paternalism¹

First recorded in 1880–85; paternal + -ism

Example Sentences

Black American liberals rejected the elements of feudalism they recognized in racial prejudice, paternalism and patriarchy.

From Salon

For the Beninese government, it’s a victory they can peddle to gain the people’s favor, while France can mine it as an image-boosting tactic that comes with tacit paternalism.

From Los Angeles Times

As a politician, Donald Trump has always exhibited a very creepy form of paternalism.

From Salon

The arguments over this question typically fall along a spectrum, with paternalism on one end and self-determination on the other.

From Seattle Times

“It’s Africa that’s going to straighten up France when it comes to paternalism, and getting a new perspective.”

From Seattle Times