ideology

American  

[ahy-dee-ol-uh-jee, id-ee-] / ˌaɪ diˈɒl ə dʒi, ˌɪd i- /

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.

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ideology British  

/ 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

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ideology Cultural  

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

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Other Word Forms

• ideological adjective
• ideologically adverb

Etymology

Origin of ideology

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

Example Sentences

Iran’s sprawling security apparatus isn’t solely held together by ideology.

From The Wall Street Journal

At least six lower courts ruled against it, with judges of varying ideologies calling it patently illegal.

From The Wall Street Journal

At least for now, a war of ideology and coalition-building in civil society is still possible.

From Salon

Even the products reflect that blend of identity and ideology.

From Barron's

Iran's position is not just about ideology; it is also about strategy.

From BBC

Related Words

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