activism

American  

[ak-tuh-viz-uhm] / ˈæk təˌvɪz əm /

noun

1. the doctrine or practice of vigorous action or involvement as a means of achieving political or other goals, sometimes by demonstrations, protests, etc.

2. Philosophy.

   1. a theory that the essence of reality is pure activity, especially spiritual activity, or process.

   2. a theory that the relationship between the mind and the objects of perception depends upon the action of the mind.

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activism British  

/ ˈæktɪˌvɪzəm /

noun

1. a policy of taking direct and often militant action to achieve an end, esp a political or social one

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Usage

What does activism mean? Activism is the practice of taking direct action to achieve political or social goals.Activism can involve supporting a particular cause (or range of causes) or opposing it. Activism uses direct (and continued) actions, such as protests, lawsuits, lobbying, petitions, and strikes.A person who engages in activism can be called an activist. The word activist implies that such actions are taken consistently—that the activist is consistently active in their activism. For example, protesting is a form of activism, but someone who attends one protest probably wouldn’t be called an activist (unless they continue to take such actions).Like activist, the word activism is often preceded by a word referring to the kind of cause involved, as in political activism or environmental activism. Example: The only way to achieve change is to engage in continued activism—we can’t sit on the sidelines if we want to see results.

Other Word Forms

• activist noun

Etymology

Origin of activism

From the German word Aktivismus, dating back to 1905–10. See active, -ism

Example Sentences

Led by opposition figure Maria Corina Machado, who won the Nobel Peace Prize for her activism, it was ready to take the helm.

From Salon

Ancora Holdings, a private-wealth adviser from the Cleveland area with a small activism shop, has been one of the noisiest activist investors recently, filling the void as big-name activists pull back on public fights.

From The Wall Street Journal

Student activism in Iran has traditionally been split broadly between three camps representing left-leaning progressives, monarchists and regime loyalists.

From The Wall Street Journal

He garnered national attention for his activism against the immigration raids that affected students last summer.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s a tradition, actually, in the UAW in particular when it comes to this kind of activism, back in the old days with the Vietnam War.

From Salon

Related Words

• advocacy
• involvement
• militancy