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Militarist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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militarist

[หˆmษชlษชtษ™rษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

politics

A person who advocates for a strong military and aggressive foreign policy, often favoring military solutions to conflicts.

Synonyms

army enthusiast, defense advocate, war hawk.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
militarist

This term often carries a negative connotation and is used to describe someone who favors war and the maintenance of a strong military force, sometimes at the expense of diplomacy.

  • The leader's militarist policies have led to increased tension with neighboring countries
war hawk

This term has a negative connotation and is typically used to describe someone who strongly supports war or military action, often in the context of political debates and foreign policy decisions.

  • The senator has been labeled a war hawk due to his calls for military intervention in several international conflicts
army enthusiast

This phrase is used in a more neutral way to describe someone who is very interested in military matters, history, or equipment, without necessarily advocating for war.

  • John is an army enthusiast who collects vintage military uniforms and reads a lot of books about World War II
defense advocate

Use this term to describe someone who supports strong national defense policies and the funding of military forces primarily for protection and safety purposes, not necessarily for aggressive actions.

  • As a defense advocate, she argued for increased budgets to maintain the country's military readiness and security

Examples of usage

  • The militarist politician called for increased defense spending.
  • The militarist leader declared war on the neighboring country.
  • The militarist faction within the government pushed for a preemptive strike.
  • The militarist ideology prioritizes military strength above diplomacy.
  • The militarist approach to international relations has been criticized for its bellicose nature.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'militarist' gained prominence in the late 19th century, especially with the rise of nationalistic movements in Europe.
  • Militarism played a significant role in World War I, with countries emphasizing military readiness and power.
  • Post-World War II, the concept of militarism was scrutinized as nations sought peace rather than military dominance.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In some cultures, militarists are depicted as heroes, reinforcing ideas of bravery and duty.
  • Media representations often portray militarists in films as characters torn between duty and moral dilemmas.
  • Contrasting views show militarists as figures promoting conflict rather than peace, often leading to societal debate.

Psychological Insights

  • Research indicates that individuals with militaristic views may prioritize order and security over personal freedoms.
  • Militarism can be associated with group identity, where a strong military is seen as protecting national pride.
  • Studies suggest high levels of militarism can lead to increased anxiety about national threats and foster a siege mentality.

Political Implications

  • Militarist policies often lead to increased defense spending, impacting funding for social programs.
  • Some countries with strong militarist ideologies may engage in aggressive foreign policies, affecting global relations.
  • Historically, militarism has been linked to authoritarian regimes, where military leaders influence civilian governance.

Literature and Media

  • Literary works like Erich Maria Remarque's 'All Quiet on the Western Front' critique the impact of militarism on human life.
  • Anti-war films often reflect on the detrimental consequences of militarist attitudes, questioning the value of warfare.
  • Dystopian novels frequently explore themes of militarism, portraying societies dominated by military rule and its repercussions.

Origin of 'militarist'

The term 'militarist' originated in the late 19th century, derived from the word 'military' with the suffix '-ist' indicating a person who advocates for a particular ideology or practice. The concept of militarism has roots in the belief that a strong military is essential for national security and power projection. Throughout history, militarists have influenced policies, wars, and international relations, shaping the course of events through their advocacy for military strength and intervention.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,511, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.