collectivism

[kuh-lek-tuh-viz-uhm]

noun

1. the political principle of centralized social and economic control, especially of all means of production.

collectivism

/ kəˈlɛktɪˌvɪzəm /

noun

1. the principle of ownership of the means of production, by the state or the people

2. a social system based on this principle

Other Word Forms

• collectivist noun
• collectivistic adjective
• collectivistically adverb
• noncollectivistic adjective
• procollectivism noun
• procollectivist adjective
• procollectivistic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of collectivism¹

1875–80; < French collectivisme; collective, -ism

Example Sentences

Within these communities exists an informal collectivism, an ebb and flow of residents, of families, of neighbors coming together at farmer’s markets, in city parks and common spaces, in a tacit recognition of shared values.

From Los Angeles Times

So it’s collectivism versus individualism, and playing those off each other was so fun to do in front of an audience deep in the heart of Texas.

From Los Angeles Times

While “Gasoline Rainbow” is a heady slice of pure, uncut youthful energy, it is also a portrait of collectivism, caretaking and a celebration of mutual aid.

From Los Angeles Times

Comedians know they have nurtured our individuality complex by spotlighting members of the crowd, but consider re-embracing collectivism — it sure alleviates a whole lot of pressure, on both them and us.

From Los Angeles Times

Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his army into Ukraine in 2022 in the expectation it would check Nato's expansion and weaken Western collectivism.

From BBC

Related Words

• socialism