PoliticsAugust 25, 2026

redistributive

ree-dis-TRIH-byoo-tiv

Definition

Relating to the policy or practice of moving wealth or resources from one group of people to another, typically through government taxation and spending.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 're-' (again) and 'distribuere' (to distribute). It entered English in the late 19th century to describe economic and political systems focused on reallocating resources.

In the news

The author uses this term to critique political systems that justify taking property from some citizens to provide for others, arguing that such state-mandated wealth transfer contradicts biblical principles of private ownership.

OPINION: Scripture doesn't sanctify state redistribution

Read the full article ↗

Moscow-Pullman Daily News

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