associationalism
|as-so-ci-a-tion-al-ism|
🇺🇸
/əˌsoʊʃiˈeɪʃənəlɪzəm/
🇬🇧
/əˌsəʊʃiˈeɪʃ(ə)nəlɪzəm/
emphasis on associations
Etymology
'associationalism' originates from English, formed by the noun 'association' + adjective suffix '-al' + noun-forming suffix '-ism'. 'association' itself comes from Latin 'associare'/'associatio', where the root 'soci-' meant 'companion' or 'ally' (to join together).
'association' entered English via Latin 'associatio' and Old French 'association'; the modern English noun 'association' developed in Middle English, and 'associationalism' was later coined in modern English by adding '-al' and '-ism' to express a doctrine or ideology about associations.
Originally related to the act or state of joining (association), the formation 'associationalism' evolved to denote a specific ideological stance emphasizing the political and social role of associations rather than merely the act of associating.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a political or social doctrine that emphasizes the importance of voluntary, intermediate associations (such as guilds, churches, clubs, or professional bodies) as mediating institutions between the individual and the state.
Many political theorists argue that associationalism strengthens civil society by empowering local groups.
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Noun 2
the practice or policy of encouraging, relying on, or organizing social and public functions through associations and voluntary organizations rather than direct state provision.
The administration's associationalism led to increased funding and delegated responsibilities for community groups.
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Last updated: 2025/11/04 07:32