Definition

1. Noun:
   • A system of ideas and ideals, especially one which forms the basis of economic or political theory and policy: "Ideology" refers to a comprehensive set of beliefs, values, and principles that shape the worldview and actions of an individual, group, or society.
   • Imaginary or visionary theorization: In a more critical sense, "ideology" can denote abstract, speculative, or impractical theories divorced from reality.
   • An orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation: It describes the foundational thought patterns and attitudes shared by a collective.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Capitalism and socialism are two major economic ideologies. (These are systems of economic thought and policy.)
  • His political decisions were driven by a strict party ideology. (His actions were based on his party's set of principles.)
  • The critic dismissed the proposal as mere ideology, unconnected to practical concerns. (The proposal was seen as abstract theorizing.)

Advanced Usage

• "Dominant ideology": The prevailing system of ideas in a society that often supports the existing social order and power structures.
  • The media can be a powerful tool for reinforcing the dominant ideology.
• "Ideological struggle": A conflict between different systems of ideas or beliefs.
  • The cold war was, in part, an ideological struggle between communism and capitalism.

Variants and Related Words

• Ideological (adj): Relating to or concerned with ideas or ideology.
  • The debate was more ideological than practical.
• Ideologue (n): A person who strongly advocates a particular ideology, often rigidly.
  • He was seen as a dangerous ideologue who refused to compromise.

Synonyms

• Doctrine: A belief or set of beliefs held and taught by a group.
• Dogma: A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.
• Worldview: A particular philosophy of life or conception of the world.

Related Phrases

• Political ideology: A set of ethical ideals, principles, doctrines, myths or symbols of a social movement, institution, class, or large group that explains how society should work.
  • Her political ideology influenced her stance on every issue.
• Ideological framework: The underlying structure of ideas that shapes understanding and action.
  • We must analyze the problem within its proper ideological framework.

Related Idioms

• "A clash of ideologies": A significant conflict between different systems of belief.
  • The negotiation failed due to a fundamental clash of ideologies.

Noun

1. imaginary or visionary theorization
2. an orientation that characterizes the thinking of a group or nation