dogmatism
DOG-muh-tiz-um
/ˈdɒɡmətɪzəm/
The tendency to lay down principles as incontrovertibly true, without consideration of evidence or the opinions of others.
Refers to rigid, arrogant certainty that rejects inquiry or counter-arguments.
The story behind the word. Traces back to Greek 'dokein' (to seem good or think). In ancient philosophical schools, a 'dogma' was a formal decision or established doctrine. Over time, 'dogmatism' came to mean holding fast to assertions regardless of reason.
Word relationships
- doctrinairism: Doctrinairism applies theoretical formulas inflexibly to practical matters; dogmatism is absolute, unquestioning certainty.
- intolerance: Intolerance is hostility toward opposing views; dogmatism is the unyielding stance that one's own view is absolute truth.
- open-mindedness: Willingness to consider new ideas and evidence.
- skepticism: The practice of questioning and demanding proof before accepting claims.
Commonly confused with
- dogma: Dogma is the specific belief or doctrine laid down; dogmatism is the stubborn attitude of holding it without question.
Word family
- dogma (noun): A principle or set of principles laid down by an authority as incontrovertibly true.
- dogmatic (adjective): Inclinating to assert opinions strongly as facts.
- dogmatist (noun): A person who asserts claims dogmatically.
Collocations
- rigid dogmatism
- blind dogmatism
- ideological dogmatism
- escape dogmatism
Example sentences
- "The professor warned his students against dogmatism, urging them to question every unexamined assertion." Philosophical essay
- "Ideological dogmatism prevented the political parties from reaching a pragmatic compromise on healthcare reform." Political critique
Memory hook
DOG-matism = barking out opinions like an aggressive DOG with no room for debate. Unquestioning certainty.
When not to use
Do not confuse having strong, well-evidenced convictions with dogmatism; dogmatism specifically implies immunity to evidence.
Fun facts
- Philosopher Immanuel Kant credited David Hume with awakening him from his 'dogmatic slumber', inspiring his critique of pure reason.
Related words
Also appears in
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