Conformism

/kənˈfɔːrmɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The practice or tendency to conform to established rules, customs, or beliefs without question or independent thinking.

Etymology

From conform + -ism suffix (indicating a doctrine or practice). This term gained prominence in the 19th century as a critique of uncritical social compliance.

Kelly Says

Conformism is different from conformity—while conformity is just following the rules, conformism is an ideology that values following rules as a good thing in itself, which philosophers argue can stifle creativity and progress.

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