Definition

Republicanism is a noun. It refers to a political ideology or system of beliefs centered on the principle that a republic is the best form of government. In a republic, sovereignty resides with the people or their elected representatives, rather than with a monarch or hereditary ruler. Republicanism emphasizes civic virtue, popular sovereignty, and often the rule of law.

Examples of Usage

• The country's founding principles were deeply rooted in republicanism, rejecting monarchy in favor of an elected government.
• His political philosophy was a blend of classical republicanism and modern liberal thought.
• The revolution was fueled by a surge of popular republicanism and a desire for self-governance.

Advanced Usage

• Civic Republicanism: A strand of republican thought that emphasizes the importance of active citizenship, civic participation, and the common good over individual self-interest.
  • The theorist's work focused on reviving the ideals of civic republicanism in the modern era.
• Classical Republicanism: Refers to the republican ideas originating from ancient Rome and Greece, later revived during the Renaissance and Enlightenment, which stress mixed government and the dangers of corruption.
  • The architecture of the new state was influenced by the principles of classical republicanism.

Variants and Related Words

• Republican (noun): A person who supports or advocates for a republican form of government.
  • He was a staunch republican who campaigned for the abolition of the monarchy.
• Republican (adjective): Pertaining to or characteristic of a republic or republicanism.
  • They established a republican system of government.
• Republic (noun): A state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives, and which has an elected or nominated president rather than a monarch.

Synonyms

• Anti-monarchism
• Popular sovereignty (as a core principle)
• Representative government (as a related system)

Antonyms

• Monarchism
• Royalism
• Absolutism

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Republican virtues: Qualities deemed essential for citizens in a republic, such as public-spiritedness, integrity, and frugality.
  • The statesman was praised for his republican virtues.
• Republican form of government: A government system where power is derived from the people, exercised by representatives, and typically includes a separation of powers.
  • The constitution guarantees every state a republican form of government.

Noun

1. the political orientation of those who hold that a republic is the best form of government