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

Also joining the event is Trian CEO Nelson Peltz, who will speak to the activism landscape and his latest over-$7 billion deal.

From The Wall Street Journal

They came from as far away as Florida, Georgia and Chicago as members of the steering committee for Mijente, a national grassroots group that organizes activism within Latino and Chicano communities.

From Los Angeles Times

Today’s stars, he lamented, seemed far less committed to activism than he and his peers had been.

From The Wall Street Journal

Lipsmith of the Sequoyah School in Pasadena described his youthful activism in broader terms.

From Los Angeles Times

Artist and music communities, long a source of activism and encouragement for street protests, have responded in kind.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• advocacy
• involvement
• militancy