PoliticsAugust 25, 2026

statism

STAY-tih-zuhm

Definition

A political doctrine or social system that promotes the centralization of economic and social control under the authority of the state.

Etymology

Derived from the word state, with the suffix -ism denoting a system or principle. It emerged in the early 20th century to describe government interventionism in economic and social affairs.

In the news

The author uses this term to criticize the view that government should be responsible for all social needs and wealth distribution, arguing that it ignores the moral limits of state authority.

OPINION: Scripture doesn't sanctify state redistribution

Read the full article ↗

Moscow-Pullman Daily News

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