pluralism

noun

plu·​ral·​ism ˈplu̇r-ə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: the holding of two or more offices or positions (such as benefices) at the same time

2

: the quality or state of being plural

3

a

: a theory that there are more than one or more than two kinds of ultimate reality

b

: a theory that reality is composed of a plurality of entities

4

a

: a state of society in which members of diverse ethnic, racial, religious, or social groups maintain and develop their traditional culture or special interest within the confines of a common civilization

b

: a concept, doctrine, or policy advocating this state

pluralist

ˈplu̇r-ə-list 

adjective or noun

pluralistic

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

pluralistically

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-sti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of pluralism in a Sentence

He spoke of the benefits of cultural pluralism.

She's a champion of pluralism.

Recent Examples on the Web

Creating more earn-and-learn apprenticeships through community colleges is a pivotal way to realize an opportunity economy where opportunity pluralism flourishes. —Bruno V. Manno, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024

This unconventional column is based on value pluralism — the idea that each of us has multiple values that are equally valid but that often conflict with each other. —Sigal Samuel, Vox, 22 Sep. 2024

His annexation of Crimea and invasion of eastern Ukraine that year began to alter this assessment, indicating a turn away from pragmatic pluralism and toward a nativist vision of empire that elevates ethnic Russians above all others. —Cristina Florea, Foreign Affairs, 10 May 2022

The rise of social media, meanwhile, has only accelerated the march of secularization, pluralism, inclusivity, and cultural openness—on the right as much as the left. —Andrew Cockburn, Harper's Magazine, 19 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 1