ideology

[ahy-dee-ol-uh-jee, id-ee-]

noun

plural

ideologies 

1. the body of doctrine, myth, belief, etc., that guides an individual, social movement, institution, class, or large group.

2. such a body of doctrine, myth, etc., with reference to some political and social plan, as that of fascism, along with the devices for putting it into operation.

3. Philosophy.

   1. the study of the nature and origin of ideas.

   2. a system that derives ideas exclusively from sensation.

4. theorizing of a visionary or impractical nature.

ideology

/ ˌaɪdɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl, ˌaɪdɪˈɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. a body of ideas that reflects the beliefs and interests of a nation, political system, etc and underlies political action

2. philosophy sociol the set of beliefs by which a group or society orders reality so as to render it intelligible

3. speculation that is imaginary or visionary

4. the study of the nature and origin of ideas

ideology

1. A system of beliefs or theories, usually political, held by an individual or a group. Capitalism, communism, and socialism are usually called ideologies.

Other Word Forms

• ideological adjective
• ideologically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of ideology¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; ideo- + -logy

Example Sentences

They have argued that the department has become too focused on diversity, equity and inclusion programmes and "woke ideology".

From BBC

In Oklahoma, education officials are requiring teachers from California and New York to take an exam aimed at guarding against ‘radical leftist ideology.’

From Los Angeles Times

At the heart of Kennedy’s ideology is an apparent belief in eugenics, something he shares with the president, who has extolled the “racehorse theory” and expressed confidence in his own “good German genes.”

From Salon

The op-ed frames the resignation as both a moral and practical imperative, stressing that political ideology must not override science in safeguarding public health and ensuring pandemic preparedness.

From Salon

At stake is not only what children sip at lunch but also who gets to decide the rules for healthy eating — and whether emerging science or political ideology shapes those choices.

From Salon

Related Words

• creed 
• culture 
• dogma 
• outlook 
• philosophy 
• theory 
• view