paternalism

[puh-tur-nl-iz-uhm]

noun

1. the system, principle, or practice of managing or governing individuals, businesses, nations, etc., in an outwardly benevolent, but often condescending or controlling way.

   The employees objected to the paternalism of their former boss.

paternalism

/ pəˈtɜːnəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the attitude or policy of a government or other authority that manages the affairs of a country, company, community, etc, in the manner of a father, esp in usurping individual responsibility and the liberty of choice

Other Word Forms

• paternalist noun
• paternalistic adjective
• paternalistically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of paternalism¹

First recorded in 1880–85; paternal + -ism

Example Sentences

There’s a certain presumption and paternalism to the notion that California Democrats know what’s best for California Republicans.

From Los Angeles Times

I would say it's paternalism, the idea that the leaders know what's best for everyone else and therefore can act for everyone else, and the idea of being a chosen people, of exceptionalism.

From Salon

Black American liberals rejected the elements of feudalism they recognized in racial prejudice, paternalism and patriarchy.

From Salon

For the Beninese government, it’s a victory they can peddle to gain the people’s favor, while France can mine it as an image-boosting tactic that comes with tacit paternalism.

From Los Angeles Times

As a politician, Donald Trump has always exhibited a very creepy form of paternalism.

From Salon