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pluralism

PLUR-uh-liz-um /ˈplʊərəˌlɪzəm/

nounC1GRESATUPSC

academicformal

A political or social system in which multiple diverse groups, ideas, or belief systems peacefully coexist.

Goes beyond simple tolerance to actively value diverse political parties, religious groups, and perspectives.

The story behind the word. From the Latin 'plus' (more), pluralism was initially used in theology to describe holding multiple church offices simultaneously. Philosophers William James and Isaiah Berlin adapted it to describe societies where competing values coexist without violent conflict.

Word relationships

multiculturalism: Multiculturalism specifically emphasizes ethnic and cultural diversity, whereas pluralism also encompasses political, ideological, and religious diversity.
diversity: Diversity refers to the presence of variety, while pluralism is a philosophical and political framework for managing that variety.

monopolism: Monopolism or totalitarianism forces single-group supremacy and eliminates diverse perspectives.
conformity: Conformity mandates that everyone adhere to the exact same standard belief or behavior.

Commonly confused with

plurality: A plurality is receiving the most votes in an election (without an absolute majority); pluralism is a political state of diversity.

Word family

pluralist (noun/adjective): An advocate of pluralism or characterized by pluralism.
pluralistic (adjective): Including or involving several distinct groups or elements.

Collocations

democratic pluralism
cultural pluralism
foster pluralism
value pluralism

Idioms & expressions

mosaic society
marketplace of ideas

Example sentences

"Democratic pluralism guarantees that minority viewpoints are protected from the tyranny of the majority." Constitutional Law
"The city flourished as a beacon of cultural pluralism, welcoming immigrants from across the globe." Sociology

Memory hook

PLURAL means MORE THAN ONE: pluralism is a society where more than one viewpoint thrives. More than one view coexists.

When not to use

Do not use to describe a homogeneous culture where everyone shares identical beliefs and practices.

Fun facts

Philosopher Isaiah Berlin famously argued for 'value pluralism'—the idea that human ultimate values like justice and freedom can legitimately conflict.