individualism
in·di·vid·u·al·ism
noun\ˌin-də-ˈvij-wə-ˌli-zəm, -ˈvi-jə-wə-, -ˈvi-jə-ˌli-\
Definition of INDIVIDUALISM
1
a (1) : a doctrine that the interests of the individual are or ought to be ethically paramount; also : conduct guided by such a doctrine (2) : the conception that all values, rights, and duties originate in individuals b : a theory maintaining the political and economic independence of the individual and stressing individual initiative, action, and interests; also : conduct or practice guided by such a theory
2
a : individuality b : an individual peculiarity : idiosyncrasy
Examples of INDIVIDUALISM
- a society that believes strongly in individualism
- He was respected for his self-reliance and individualism.
First Known Use of INDIVIDUALISM
1827
Related to INDIVIDUALISM
Synonyms: crotchet, curiosity, eccentricity, erraticism, idiosyncrasy, kink, mannerism, oddity, peculiarity, quiddity, quip, quirk, singularity, tic, trick, twist
Related Words: affectation, airs; attribute, characteristic, mark, property, trait; custom, habit, pattern, practice (also practise), way, wont; addiction; abnormality, neuroticism, perversion, weirdness; disposition, genius, leaning, partiality; bent, inclination, penchant, predilection, predisposition, proclivity, propensity, tendency, turn; attitude, character, humor, identity, individuality, nature, personality, temperament
Near Antonyms: conformity, sameness
Other Philosophy Terms
Learn More About INDIVIDUALISM
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: individualist
Previous Word in the Dictionary: individualise
All Words Near: individualism
Previous Word in the Dictionary: individualise
All Words Near: individualism
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up individualism? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).






See 

