pluralism

noun

plu·​ral·​ism ˈplu̇r-ə-ˌli-zəm 

1

: the holding of two or more offices or positions (such as benefices) at the same time

2

: the quality or state of being plural

3

a

: a theory that there are more than one or more than two kinds of ultimate reality

b

: a theory that reality is composed of a plurality of entities

4

a

: a state of society in which members of diverse ethnic, racial, religious, or social groups maintain and develop their traditional culture or special interest within the confines of a common civilization

b

: a concept, doctrine, or policy advocating this state

pluralist

ˈplu̇r-ə-list 

adjective or noun

pluralistic

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-stik 

adjective

pluralistically

ˌplu̇r-ə-ˈli-sti-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of pluralism in a Sentence

He spoke of the benefits of cultural pluralism.

She's a champion of pluralism.

Recent Examples on the Web

This unconventional column is based on value pluralism — the idea that each of us has multiple values that are equally valid but that often conflict with each other. —Vox Staff, Vox, 5 Nov. 2024

This approach fosters opportunity pluralism, promoting multiple pathways to jobs, careers, and human flourishing. —Bruno V. Manno, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024

Such dual-economy arrangements later allowed the great imperial powers to make their commitment to free exchange, and to a degree of pluralism, commensurable with their ongoing subjugation of native peoples. —Gideon Lewis-Kraus, The New Yorker, 21 Oct. 2024

My advice column is based on value pluralism, the idea — developed by philosophers like Isaiah Berlin and Bernard Williams — that each person has multiple values that are equally valid but that sometimes conflict with each other. —Sigal Samuel, Vox, 8 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1772, in the meaning defined at sense 1