Impartialist: meaning, definitions and examples

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impartialist

 

[ ɪmˈpɑːrʃəlɪst ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

philosophy perspective

An impartialist is someone who believes in and advocates for the principle of impartiality, especially in moral philosophy and ethics. This perspective emphasizes treating all individuals equally and without bias, often focusing on fairness in decision-making.

Synonyms

even-handed, neutral, unbiased

Examples of usage

  • The impartialist approach in ethics suggests that decisions should not favor any individual over another.
  • Impartialists argue that justice is best served when actions are based on reason rather than personal preferences.
  • In debates about fairness, impartialists often highlight the importance of equal consideration for all parties.

Etymology

The term 'impartialist' derives from the word 'impartial', which has its roots in Middle English, stemming from the Latin word 'impartialis'. Impartiality as a concept has been a cornerstone of philosophical discourse since ancient times, particularly in the context of ethics and justice. Philosophers like John Stuart Mill and Immanuel Kant emphasized the importance of impartial judgment in moral reasoning. The suffix '-ist' denotes someone who practices or advocates a particular doctrine or belief, thereby creating a term for those who uphold the principles of impartiality. Over time, the use of 'impartialist' has become more pronounced in discussions surrounding ethics, political theory, and social justice, reflecting a broader societal desire for fairness and equality.