tribalism

/ˈtraɪbəlɪzəm/

Definitions

1. noun

A feeling of belonging to or loyalty towards a particular social group or community, especially one based on shared culture, language, or ethnic identity.

“The politician’s rise to power was hindered by her criticism of tribalism in the country’s electoral process.”

2. noun

A form of social organization based on tribes, with each tribe having its own customs, laws, and traditions.

“The anthropologist spent years studying the tribalism of the indigenous community she lived among.”

3. noun

A strong or unreasonable loyalty to a particular group or community, often based on shared interests or prejudices.

“The politician’s tribalism towards her own party led to her making decisions that benefited them at the expense of the country as a whole.”

4. noun

A practice or system of dividing people into groups based on perceived differences in culture, language, or ethnic identity, often leading to conflict or social unrest.

“The country’s leaders worked to dismantle the tribalism that had been fueling sectarian violence for decades.”

Synonyms

  • factionalism
  • sectarianism
  • sectarism
  • tribalization

Antonyms

  • cosmopolitanism
  • globalism
  • integration