Isms Definitions Flashcards
Nationalism
The idea that members of a shared community called a nation^ should have sovereignty within the borders of their state.
^ people who, in theory if not always practice, share a common language, culture, and history
Liberalism
Political and social theory that advocates representative government, free trade, and freedom of speech and religion
Liberalism (Classical)
Earliest interpretation of Liberalism, which views GOVERNMENT as the greatest threat to individual freedom
Liberalism (Modern)
Post-Industrial Revolution version of Liberalism, which views unregulated BUSINESS INTERESTS, ESPECIALLY CORPORATIONS, as the greatest threat to individual freedom. Government is often viewed as a guardian against such exploitation through regulation
Capitalism
An economic system in which investment in and ownership of the means of production, distribution, and exchange of wealth is made and maintained chiefly by private individuals and corporations, especially as contrasted to cooperatively or state-owned means of wealth. An important element is that “the (free) market” determines prices.
Laissez-Faire
The concept that the economy works best when it is left alone – that is, when the state does not regulate or interfere with the workings of the market.
Conservatism
The general attitude that change must always begin with what came before and is most successful when it works gradually from that tradition rather than being imposed from outside according to abstract theories or texts.
Socialism
A social and governmental system that pursues social and economic equality and that requires government intervention in economic affairs.
Socialism differs from Communism in some critical ways, such as: it works within existing democratic governments; it pursues social reforms through wealth redistribution but also rewards individual effort and innovation; and it can exist alongside a capitalist economy.
Communism
An economic and political system under which there is no private property. A central government controls all aspects of economic production (including employment), and is responsible to distributing basic necessities, such as food, housing, medical care, and education.
Communism views the violent overthrow of the middle and upper classes by the working class as inevitable and essential.
Domesticity
Idea common in the middle and upper classes that females needed to be protected from the sphere of work and were more properly central to running the home. It valued women for purity, religious piety, and submissiveness.
Feminism
Idea that calls for equal treatment for men and women, such as equal pay, opportunities for advancement, and political representation.
Imperialism
The acquisition of new territories by a state and the incorporation of them into a political system as subordinate colonies.
Globalization
The development of increasingly interconnected worldwide cultural and economic structures
Industrial Revolution
Gradual accumulation and diffusion of old and new technical knowledge that led to major economic changes in Britain, northwestern Europe, and North America, catapulting these regions ahead of the rest of the world in manufacturing and agricultural output and standards of living.
Neoclassicism
Artistic movement of the late 18th through early 19th century that emphasized ancient Greco-Roman themes (e.g., patriotism, heroic leadership) and style
