What does legalism mean?

Definitions for legalism
ˈli gəˌlɪz əmle·gal·ism

This dictionary definitions page includes all the possible meanings, example usage and translations of the word legalism.

Princeton's WordNet

  1. legalismnoun

    strict conformity to the letter of the law rather than its spirit

Wiktionary

  1. legalismnoun

    A philosophy of focusing on the text of written law to the exclusion of the intent of law, elevating strict adherence to law over justice, mercy, grace and common sense.

  2. legalismnoun

    A legal axiom; a statement couched as a proverb expressing a rule of law.

ChatGPT

  1. legalism

    Legalism refers to a philosophy or belief system that emphasizes strict adherence to laws and rules, often supporting the idea that rules are the primary means of maintaining order and achieving success or ethical conduct. It places more emphasis on law than personal morality or ethics. In a broader context, it may also imply an excessive adherence to law or formula, where the spirit or intention of the law could be overlooked. This term is often used in religious, ethical, political and philosophical discussions.

Webster Dictionary

  1. Legalismnoun

    strictness, or the doctrine of strictness, in conforming to law

Wikidata

  1. Legalism

    In Chinese history, Legalism was a philosophy emphasizing strict obedience to the law system. It was one of the main philosophic currents during the Warring States period. It was a utilitarian political philosophy that did not address higher questions like the purpose and nature of life. The school's most famous proponent and contributor Han Fei Zi

The Nuttall Encyclopedia

  1. Legalism

    adherence to the strict letter of the law often in disregard of the spirit and even in defiance of it.

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Numerology

  1. Chaldean Numerology

    The numerical value of legalism in Chaldean Numerology is: 5

  2. Pythagorean Numerology

    The numerical value of legalism in Pythagorean Numerology is: 6

Popularity rank by frequency of use

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Translations for legalism

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"legalism." Definitions.net. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 19 Mar. 2024. <https://www.definitions.net/definition/legalism>.

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