majoritarianism

American  

[muh-jawr-i-tair-ee-uh-niz-uhm, -jor-] / məˌdʒɔr ɪˈtɛər i əˌnɪz əm, -ˌdʒɒr- /

noun

1. rule by a majority, especially the belief that those constituting a simple majority should make the rules for all members of a group, nation, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of majoritarianism

First recorded in 1960–65; majoritarian + -ism

Example Sentences

Democracy involves both majoritarianism — governance that is responsive to the people — and the rule of law — that everyone is accountable to the rules.

From Salon

Perhaps that is why Gandhi went to such lengths to foreswear majoritarianism, instead stressing tolerance of even the smallest of minorities.

From BBC

While ushering in a remarkable moment of communal fraternity, Hindu-Muslim unity raised fears of majoritarianism among smaller minority groups: Christians, Sikhs, Parsis and Jews.

From BBC

He dissipated the spectre of majoritarianism, ensuring that the riots did not permanently scar Bombay.

From BBC

The tools of normal politics in a democracy, such as campaigns and elections, voting, a belief in the inherent value of "bipartisanship" and "compromise" with the opposition, majoritarianism with respect for minority voices, pluralism and responsiveness to the public will are almost useless, if not wholly obsolete, in a battle against fascists and other political extremists.

From Salon