doctrinarianism
Noun: - Adherence to rigid doctrine: "doctrinarianism" refers to the strict, often uncompromising adherence to a set of principles or beliefs (a doctrine), especially in political, religious, or ideological contexts. It implies a tendency to apply theoretical ideas without considering practical circumstances or differing viewpoints.
- (The party's rigid adherence to its principles caused it to lose support.)
- (His refusal to deviate from his beliefs blocked progress.)
- (The school followed outdated principles too strictly.)
"Doctrinarianism in politics": often used to describe political movements that prioritize ideological purity over practical governance.
- The leader's doctrinarianism led to economic isolation, as he refused to trade with any nation that did not share his beliefs. (Strict ideological adherence harmed the country's prosperity.)
"Religious doctrinarianism": refers to the insistence on literal interpretation of religious texts without allowance for contextual interpretation.
- The sect's doctrinarianism caused it to split from the main church over a minor ritual. (Rigid belief in doctrine created division.)
Doctrinaire (adj): inclined to impose rigid doctrines; dogmatic.
- His doctrinaire approach to education left no room for student input. (He was stubbornly attached to his theories.)
- A doctrinaire Marxist, she rejected any modification of the original texts. (She adhered strictly to Marxist ideology.)
Doctrine (n): a set of beliefs held and taught by a group, often in religion or politics.
- The doctrine of nonviolence was central to his philosophy. (The core belief guiding his actions.)
Doctrinal (adj): relating to a doctrine or set of beliefs.
- The doctrinal differences between the two churches were minor. (Differences in their formal teachings.)
Dogmatism: the tendency to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true, without consideration of evidence or other opinions.
- Her dogmatism prevented her from listening to alternative views. (Similar to doctrinarianism, but often more personal and less tied to a specific system.)
Rigidity: the quality of being unwilling to change or adapt.
- The rigidity of his beliefs made collaboration difficult. (Emphasizes inflexibility.)
Orthodoxy: conformity to accepted norms or doctrines.
- The group's orthodoxy was enforced through strict rules. (Often positive, but can imply excessive adherence.)
"Stick to one's guns": to persist in one's position or opinion despite opposition.
- Despite criticism, he stuck to his guns and refused to change the policy. (Similar to doctrinarianism in its refusal to compromise.)
"Set in one's ways": to be fixed in one's habits or opinions, unwilling to change.
- The old professor was set in his ways and rejected new teaching methods. (Describes a personal rigidity akin to doctrinarianism.)