sectionalism

/'sekʃənlizm/

Học thuật

Thân thiện

The debate over the new trade policy revealed deep sectionalism among the representatives.

Definition

Noun:
- Excessive or narrow-minded concern for the interests of a particular region or section of a country over the interests of the nation as a whole. This is the primary meaning, referring to a political or social loyalty that prioritizes a local area.
- A partiality for some particular place. This is a more general sense, describing a strong, often biased, preference or devotion to a specific region or locality.

Usage

Sectionalism is typically used in political, historical, and sociological contexts to describe attitudes or policies that favor one part of a country.
It often implies a divisive force that can weaken national unity.
It is commonly used as an uncountable noun.

Examples

The historian argued that sectionalism over the issue of slavery was a primary cause of the American Civil War.
The new policy was criticized for promoting sectionalism by benefiting only the coastal states.
His speeches were free from sectionalism and appealed to a national audience.

Advanced Usage

"to foster/combat sectionalism": to encourage or to fight against regional divisiveness.
- The leader's goal was to combat sectionalism and promote a shared national identity.
"economic/political sectionalism": specifies the type of regional bias.
- The debate was marked by intense political sectionalism.

Variants and Related Words

Sectional (adj): Relating to a particular region or section; also, a type of sofa made in separate pieces.
- The issue created deep sectional divisions within the party.
Sectionalist (n): A person who advocates for or is characterized by sectionalism.
- He was labeled a sectionalist for his unwavering focus on northern interests.

Synonyms

Regionalism: Loyalty to the interests of a particular region.
Parochialism: A limited, narrow outlook, focused on a local area.
Localism: Preference for what is local, sometimes at the expense of broader considerations.

Antonyms

Nationalism: Identification with and devotion to the interests of one's entire nation.
Federalism: A system where power is shared between a central authority and constituent regions, often aiming to balance local and national interests.

Related Phrases and Concepts

"States' rights": A doctrine in U.S. history emphasizing the rights of individual states, often associated with sectionalism.
"North-South divide": A classic example of sectionalism, especially in U.S. history.

The debate over the new trade policy revealed deep sectionalism among the representatives.

Noun

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