internationalism

American  

[in-ter-nash-uh-nl-iz-uhm] / ˌɪn tərˈnæʃ ə nlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the principle of cooperation among nations, for the promotion of their common good, sometimes as contrasted with nationalism, or devotion to the interests of a particular nation.

2. international character, relations, cooperation, or control.

3. (initial capital letter) the principles or methods of a communist or socialist International.

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internationalism British  

/ ˌɪntəˈnæʃənəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the ideal or practice of cooperation and understanding between nations

2. the state or quality of being international

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internationalism Cultural  

1. The view that nations should cooperate in international organizations, such as the United Nations, to settle disputes.

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Etymology

Origin of internationalism

First recorded in 1850–55; international + -ism

Compare meaning

How does internationalism compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• isolationism vs. internationalism

Explanation

In political science, internationalism refers to the idea that cooperation between different countries is beneficial for everyone. A government that adheres to the doctrine of internationalism works with other governments to avoid conflict and to cooperate economically. Most fans of internationalism are also in favor of "free trade," in which nations are free to buy and sell goods across all borders. The opposite of internationalism is ultranationalism or jingoism, which favor extreme patriotism and aggression toward other countries.

Example Sentences

Most presidential administrations have claimed to operate according to a foreign policy doctrine of some kind: for instance, neoconservatism, liberal internationalism, isolationism, or realpolitik.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

Faced with impending war in the 1930s, however, scientific internationalism fragmented, with physicists reverting to their national allegiances.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 12, 2025

Sir Keir also promised to return the UK to “responsible global leadership” by recommitting to “the UN, to internationalism, to the rule of law”.

From BBC • Sep. 26, 2024

When “Parasite” triumphed, it was a chest-thump for Hollywood’s expanding internationalism.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 7, 2024

With the revival of internationalism, it has been translated into every language of the industrial world, and I am told a Japanese and a Turkish edition have been issued.

From Socialism and Democracy in Europe by Orth, Samuel P.