Relating to or based on a particular set of ideas or beliefs, especially political or social theories. Describes thinking that is influenced by systematic doctrines rather than practical considerations.
From French 'idéologie', coined by philosopher Destutt de Tracy in 1801 from Greek 'idea' (form/concept) and 'logos' (study). The term initially meant the science of ideas but later acquired political connotations.
Napoleon Bonaparte actually popularized the negative connotations of 'ideological' by dismissing his intellectual opponents as 'ideologists' - impractical theorists disconnected from reality. This political weaponization of the term explains why calling something 'ideological' often implies criticism today.
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