voluntarism

[ vol-uhn-tuh-riz-uhm ]

noun

1. Philosophy. any theory that regards will as the fundamental agency or principle, in metaphysics, epistemology, or psychology.
2. the principle or practice of supporting churches, schools, hospitals, etc., by voluntary contributions or aid instead of relying on government assistance.
3. any policy or practice based on voluntary action.

voluntarism

/ ˈvɒləntəˌrɪzəm /

noun

1. philosophy the theory that the will rather than the intellect is the ultimate principle of reality
2. a doctrine or system based on voluntary participation in a course of action
3. the belief that the state, government, and the law should not interfere with the procedures of collective bargaining and of trade union organization
4. See voluntaryism
   another name for voluntaryism

Derived Forms

• ˌvoluntaˈristic, adjective
• ˈvoluntarist, nounadjective

Other Words From

• volun·ta·rist noun adjective
• volun·ta·ristic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of voluntarism¹

First recorded in 1830–40; voluntar(y) + -ism

Example Sentences

One particular school of voluntarism (Wundt) reduces the motive-force of energy to will.

From Project Gutenberg

The two great characteristics of the British race—initiative and endurance—are due to this burning flame of voluntarism.

From Project Gutenberg

This difference is wrongly set forth if the antithesis to voluntarism is called intellectualism.

From Project Gutenberg

On the contrary: voluntarism, we say, is right in every respect except in believing itself to be psychology.

From Project Gutenberg

The antithesis is also misinterpreted, or at least wrongly narrowed, if it is called voluntarism versus associationism.

From Project Gutenberg