Paternalism: meaning, definitions and examples
๐จโ๐ง
paternalism
[ pษหtษrnษlษชzษm ]
social policy
Paternalism is a practice or policy of managing or governing individuals or groups in a manner analogous to that of a father guiding his children. In this concept, authorities assume they know what is best for those they are overseeing, often without consulting them. Paternalism can be seen in various sectors, such as healthcare, where professionals may make decisions for patients, or in government, where policies might be implemented with the justification of protecting citizens. Critics argue that this approach can undermine individual autonomy and personal freedom.
Synonyms
authoritarianism, guardianism, overprotectiveness
Examples of usage
- The government's paternalism in healthcare decisions has sparked a debate.
- Many believe that paternalism in education can limit student independence.
- Critics of paternalism argue it disregards individual rights.
Translations
Translations of the word "paternalism" in other languages:
๐ต๐น paternalismo
๐ฎ๐ณ เคชเคฟเคคเฅเคธเคคเฅเคคเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Paternalismus
๐ฎ๐ฉ paternalistik
๐บ๐ฆ ะฟะฐัััะฐัั ะฐั
๐ต๐ฑ paternalizm
๐ฏ๐ต ็ถๆจฉไธป็พฉ
๐ซ๐ท paternalisme
๐ช๐ธ paternalismo
๐น๐ท babacanlฤฑk
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ถ๊ถ์ฃผ์
๐ธ๐ฆ ุงูุฃุจูููุฉ
๐จ๐ฟ paternalismus
๐ธ๐ฐ paternalizmus
๐จ๐ณ ็ถๆไธปไน
๐ธ๐ฎ paternalizem
๐ฎ๐ธ feรฐraveld
๐ฐ๐ฟ ำะบะตะปัะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแขแ แแแ แฅแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ atalฤฑq
๐ฒ๐ฝ paternalismo
Word origin
The term 'paternalism' originates from the Latin word 'pater', meaning 'father'. The concept has evolved over time, beginning in the 19th century as it started to be used in social and political discourse. Initially, it was associated with the idea of a benevolent authority figure caring for those who are weaker or less capable. This paternalistic approach can be traced back to various philosophical ideologies, including those of John Stuart Mill and his reflections on personal liberty and authority. Throughout history, paternalism has been a point of discussion in contexts like colonialism, where it justified the control of one group over another with the premise of providing guidance and protection. Over time, as societies have progressed, the implications of paternalism have come under scrutiny, leading to discussions about the balance between authority and individual rights.