The practice or doctrine of pronouncing anathema; the use of formal curses or excommunication, especially in religious traditions.
From 'anathema' plus the suffix '-ism'. The term emerged in theological and religious studies to describe systematic practices of religious condemnation.
Medieval Christianity had anathematism as a core institutional power—bishops could literally curse you in the name of God, and most people believed this spiritual curse could kill you, giving religious authorities terrifying social control.
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