Communalism: meaning, definitions and examples
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communalism
[ kəˈmjunəˌlɪzəm ]
political theory
Communalism is a political philosophy that emphasizes the importance of community in societal organization and governance. It advocates for the establishment of egalitarian, self-managed communities that operate on democratic principles. The philosophy suggests that individuals thrive within well-functioning communities, and hence focuses on local governance and participatory democracy.
Synonyms
collectivism, communitarianism, cooperativism
Examples of usage
- The rise of communalism in the region has led to more locally focused governance.
- Communalism emphasizes the collective ownership of resources.
- Many activists today are inspired by the principles of communalism.
Etymology
The word 'communalism' originates from the term 'commune', which is derived from the Latin 'communis', meaning 'common, universal'. The concept has roots in the early 19th century as various social movements began to advocate for community-focused living and governance systems. Scholars and political theorists have developed the idea further, especially during the 20th century, in response to the challenges posed by capitalism and state control. Communalism has been influenced by various ideologies, including anarchism and socialism, and has evolved into a contemporary framework for thinking about politics, ecology, and society. The term gained prominence in the context of various social movements and theories, particularly in the works of thinkers like Murray Bookchin, who advocated for decentralized, ecological communities as a response to modern societal issues.