fundamentalism
UK[ˌfʌndəˈmentəlɪzəm]US[ˌfʌndəˈmentəlɪzəm]
n
A form of a religion, especially Islam or Protestant Christianity, that upholds belief in the strict, literal interpretation of scripture.
n
Strict adherence to the basic principles of any subject or discipline.
Morpheme Breakdown
fundamental
ism
fundamental
forming a necessary base or core
ism
a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy
Etymology
The term 'fundamentalism' is a modern construction built upon the older word 'fundamental', which traces its lineage to the Latin fundamentum, meaning "foundation." This, in turn, derives from fundus, meaning "bottom" or "base," a term with deep Proto-Indo-European roots. The suffix '-ism' was appended in the early 20th century to denote a systematic movement or ideology. Thus, the word's logic moves from the concrete concept of a physical foundation to the abstract idea of a belief system strictly based on what its adherents consider the foundational, immutable principles of their faith or theory.
Analysis
Structure: fundamental + ism
- fundamental: From Latin fundamentum (foundation), from fundare (to found). Acts as the core adjective/root meaning "forming a necessary base or core".
- ism: From Greek -ismos, a suffix forming nouns of action, state, or doctrine. Acts as a noun-forming suffix meaning "a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy".
Examples
The rise of religious fundamentalism in the region has influenced social and political policies.
His approach to economics borders on market fundamentalism, rejecting any form of government intervention.
Scholars distinguish between traditional piety and the more reactive stance of modern fundamentalism.