majoritarianism

noun

ma·​jor·​i·​tar·​i·​an·​ism mə-ˌjȯr-ə-ˈter-ē-ə-ˌni-zəm 

-ˌjär-

: the philosophy or practice according to which decisions of an organized group should be made by a numerical majority of its members

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

With Arab nationalism on the wane and majoritarianism ascendant sectarian alignments are now coming to the fore. —Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 10 Apr. 2012

Traditional majoritarianism reduces polarization, creates strong candidates, and gives voters a recognizable opposition that can be called upon when necessary. —Sean-michael Pigeon, National Review, 23 June 2021

And from majoritarianism to authoritarianism is a very short slide backwards. —Angelina Jolie, Time, 17 Apr. 2021

In newspaper columns and academic work, Mehta had been critical of the majoritarianism of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). —Billy Perrigo, Time, 19 Mar. 2021

This brand of majoritarianism is objectively un-American, undermining the proper constitutional limits of the federal government to lord over states and localities. —David Harsanyi, National Review, 18 Mar. 2021

Wherever and whenever slavery enjoyed majority support, Calhoun’s enthusiasm for counter-majoritarianism mysteriously waned. —Cameron Hilditch, National Review, 28 Oct. 2020

There is more to intelligent and decent government than sheer numeric might and majoritarianism — see again the Bill of Rights. —Kevin D. Williamson, National Review, 9 Sep. 2020

Crass majoritarianism gives them a choice of living under Californian government in California or living under Californian government in Wyoming. —Kevin D. Williamson, National Review, 9 Sep. 2020

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Word History

First Known Use

1942, in the meaning defined above