voluntarism

American  

[vol-uhn-tuh-riz-uhm] / ˈvɒl ən təˌrɪz əm /

noun

1. Philosophy. any theory that regards will as the fundamental agency or principle, in metaphysics, epistemology, or psychology.

2. the principle or practice of supporting churches, schools, hospitals, etc., by voluntary contributions or aid instead of relying on government assistance.

3. any policy or practice based on voluntary action.

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voluntarism British  

/ ˈvɒləntəˌrɪzəm /

noun

1. philosophy the theory that the will rather than the intellect is the ultimate principle of reality

2. a doctrine or system based on voluntary participation in a course of action

3. the belief that the state, government, and the law should not interfere with the procedures of collective bargaining and of trade union organization

4. another name for voluntaryism

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Other Word Forms

• voluntarist noun
• voluntaristic adjective

Etymology

Origin of voluntarism

First recorded in 1830–40; voluntar(y) + -ism

Compare meaning

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

• voluntarism vs. volunteerism

Example Sentences

"The spirit of that voluntarism will not remain if the government hurts the sentiments of the people," says Sonam Wangchuk, an engineer, innovator and climate activist, who has worked for years to address local community needs.

From BBC

You also write about alternatives to the individualist culture, like worker cooperatives and other kinds of voluntarism.

From Salon

First, in providing me a reassurance that essential virtues, values and voluntarism still thrive, at least in some places.

From Washington Post

Societal benefits of higher education also include a higher gross domestic product, decreased crime, increased rates of voluntarism and higher rates of voter participation.

From Washington Times

This is voluntarism, and it seems to follow naturally from the idea of laws of nature.

From Literature