Cavalierism

/ˌkævəˈlɪərɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A political or social ideology or attitude characteristic of cavaliers; the principles or practices of aristocratic or royalist supporters.

Etymology

From 'cavalier' plus the suffix '-ism' (forming ideologies and belief systems). Historically rooted in the English Civil War era when Cavaliers opposed Parliamentarians, the term gained philosophical weight.

Kelly Says

'Cavalierism' was taken seriously enough by 19th-century political writers to analyze as a genuine historical ideology—not just arrogance, but a whole worldview centered on loyalty, honor, and aristocratic privilege that shaped British politics.

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