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Conventionalism Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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conventionalism

[kənˈvɛnʃənəˌlɪzəm ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

social norms

Conventionalism refers to the practice of following traditional or customary norms and behaviors within a society. It involves conforming to established standards and expectations, often without questioning their validity or reasoning.

Synonyms

conservatism, orthodoxy, tradition.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conventionalism

This word is often used to describe the practice of adhering strictly to traditional norms and conventions, often in art, literature, or social behavior.

  • Her fashion sense is characterized by conventionalism, favoring classic styles over modern trends
tradition

Use this word when referring to customs, practices, and beliefs that are handed down from one generation to another.

  • Family tradition dictates that we gather every Sunday for dinner
orthodoxy

This word is best applied in religious or ideological contexts to describe the adherence to traditional and established beliefs or practices.

  • He was a staunch defender of theological orthodoxy and opposed any reinterpretation of sacred texts
conservatism

This term is used in both social and political contexts to describe a preference for maintaining established traditions and resisting major changes.

  • Conservatism in politics often emphasizes preserving existing institutions and values

Examples of usage

  • His adherence to conventionalism made him reluctant to explore new ideas.
  • In some cultures, conventionalism dictates that certain behaviors are considered taboo.
  • The school's curriculum was based on conventionalism, focusing on classic literature and historical events.
Context #2 | Noun

philosophy

In philosophy, conventionalism is the view that basic principles and concepts, such as space and time, are human inventions and not inherent in the external world. It suggests that these concepts are agreed upon by society rather than being absolute truths.

Synonyms

constructivism, relativism, subjectivism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
conventionalism

Used when referring to the adherence to traditional practices and norms, often implying resistance to change or innovation.

  • The company's conventionalism made it difficult for new ideas to gain traction.
  • Her conventionalism meant she preferred classic works of literature over modern experiments.
relativism

Best used in philosophical discussions to indicate the belief that truth and moral values are not absolute but are relative to the perspectives or cultures of individuals or groups.

  • Cultural relativism suggests that one should understand another culture on its own terms.
  • Ethical relativism argues that moral principles vary between different societies.
subjectivism

Used in philosophical and ethical contexts to refer to the theory that moral opinions and truths are based on personal feelings and perspectives, often implying a lack of objective standards.

  • Subjectivism holds that what one person finds moral might differ completely from another's viewpoint.
  • In the realm of art criticism, subjectivism allows for a wide range of interpretations based on personal taste.
constructivism

Applied in educational and philosophical contexts to describe the theory that knowledge and understanding are actively constructed by individuals based on their experiences.

  • In the constructivism approach to education, students build their understanding through hands-on activities.
  • Constructivism posits that learning is an active, not a passive, process.

Examples of usage

  • The philosopher argued for a form of conventionalism that challenged traditional notions of reality.
  • Conventionalism in philosophy raises questions about the nature of knowledge and perception.
  • Some scientists reject conventionalism in favor of a more realist approach to understanding the universe.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Cultural Perspectives

  • Conventionalism can influence art and literature; many artists and writers challenge traditional norms to promote new ideas.
  • In various cultures, conventional practices shape social norms around ceremonies, marriage, and education.
  • In certain communities, conventional ways are highly valued for providing stability and continuity across generations.

Psychology

  • Psychological studies suggest that people often adhere to conventional methods because it provides a sense of belonging.
  • Conventionalism is linked to conservatism in political psychology, where individuals favor maintaining existing traditions.
  • Groupthink, a psychological phenomenon, illustrates how conventionalism can lead to poor decision-making when individuals prioritize harmony over innovation.

Philosophy

  • Philosophically, conventionalism argues that truths and social norms are based on social agreements rather than objective realities.
  • Prominent philosophers like David Hume discussed the limitations of reasoning when it comes to conventional beliefs.
  • This philosophy contrasts with moral realism, which posits that some truths exist independently of human conventions.

Social Movements

  • Many social movements begin by challenging conventionalism, advocating for progressive changes to existing norms.
  • The feminist movement has often confronted conventional beliefs around gender roles and expectations.
  • Youth cultures typically rebel against conventionalism, using fashion, music, and art to create new identities.

Origin of 'conventionalism'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the word 'convention,' which means an agreement or practice that is accepted by a group.
  • It has roots in the Latin word 'convenire,' meaning to come together.
  • The suffix '-ism' denotes a belief or practice, making 'conventionalism' a way of thinking that values traditions.

The term 'conventionalism' originated in the mid-19th century, stemming from the word 'conventional' meaning based on convention or tradition. It has been used in various fields such as sociology, philosophy, and linguistics to describe the adherence to established norms and the concept of socially constructed realities.

See also: conventional, conventionalist, conventionally, conventions, unconventionality, unconventionally.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,385 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.