Definition

1. Noun:
   • The ideology of the political left; belief in or support of the tenets of the political left: "Leftism" refers to a set of political beliefs and principles associated with the left side of the political spectrum. These typically include support for social equality, social welfare programs, progressive taxation, and government intervention in the economy to reduce inequality and protect public goods.

Usage

• "Leftism" is used as an uncountable noun to describe a broad political ideology or orientation. It is often discussed in academic, journalistic, and political contexts when analyzing political movements, parties, or historical trends.
• It is a general term that encompasses various specific schools of thought (e.g., socialism, social democracy, progressivism) under the umbrella of left-wing politics.

Examples

• Noun:
  • His political philosophy was rooted in a deep-seated leftism that favored strong social safety nets.
  • The party's shift toward more centrist policies was seen by some as a betrayal of its traditional leftism.
  • Academic debates often explore the differences between classical leftism and modern progressive movements.

Advanced Usage

• "Radical leftism": Refers to the most extreme or revolutionary forms of left-wing ideology, often advocating for a complete overhaul of the capitalist system.
  • The manifesto called for radical leftism and the abolition of private property.
• "Cultural leftism": Pertains to left-wing ideology focused on social and cultural issues, such as civil rights, gender equality, and identity politics, sometimes distinct from economic leftism.
  • The debate highlighted a tension between economic and cultural leftism within the movement.

Variants and Related Words

• Leftist (noun/adjective): A person who supports or adheres to leftism; of or relating to leftism.
  • She is a committed leftist who campaigns for workers' rights.
• Left-wing (adjective): Describing political ideas, groups, or people that support leftism.
  • The left-wing coalition proposed a new tax on wealth.

Synonyms

• Progressivism: A political philosophy advocating for social reform and progress.
• Socialism: A range of economic and social systems characterized by social ownership of the means of production.
• Liberalism (in a modern, center-left context): A political philosophy based on liberty and equality, often supporting social justice and a mixed economy.

Antonyms

• Rightism: The ideology of the political right; belief in or support of conservative or reactionary tenets.
• Conservatism: A political philosophy that emphasizes retaining traditional social institutions and practices.

Related Phrases

• "To embrace leftism": To adopt or support left-wing ideology.
  • During his university years, he began to embrace leftism.
• "A critique of leftism": An analysis or criticism of left-wing ideology.
  • The book offers a sharp critique of contemporary leftism from a centrist perspective.

Noun

1. the ideology of the political left; belief in or support of the tenets of the political left