Militarism - English Definition & Meaning

Definition

Militarism is the belief or desire of a government or people that a country should maintain a strong military capability and be prepared to use it aggressively to defend or promote national interests. It emphasizes military strength, readiness, and the glorification of military values. Think of it as a society where military parades are common, and military service is highly respected. Unlike a balanced approach to national security, militarism prioritizes military solutions above all others. It's like believing every problem can be solved with a hammer. It is a belief that military power is key.

Etymology

"Militarism" derives from "military," which comes from the Latin word "miles," meaning soldier. The suffix "-ism" denotes a doctrine or system of belief. Militarism literally means the belief in the importance of the military. It connects a society to power and prestige.

Related Words

Examples

• "Critics argued that the government's policies reflected a growing militarism."
• "Militarism was a significant factor leading up to World War I."
• "Militarism often involves the glorification of war and military values."
• "The rise of militarism can threaten democratic institutions and individual freedoms."

Encouragement

Militarism is a complex and often dangerous ideology. 🤔 It's crucial to think critically about the role of the military in society and the potential consequences of prioritizing military solutions above all others. Remember to advocate for peaceful solutions and promote understanding between nations. 🌍

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