Political Ideologies, Definition, Major List, Types, Characteristics

Political Ideologies are collective beliefs, morals, ethics, valuations, government administration approaches, and social responsibilities of a nation (hereafter referred to as ‘Ideological Frameworks’). 

The development of the Ideological Frameworks consists of influences from personal history, culture, and previous experience. These Influences vary from person to person, community to community, and Nation to Nation. 

The Major Ideologies of Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism, and Feminism all provide distinct visions of society, administration, and structure for the governance of society. The details of the Ideological Framework of Political Ideologies can be read in the Article provided below.

Political Ideologies

The Ideological Framework of Political Ideologies describes the way power, authority, and resources should be shared among all members of a given culture/community, by creating a Social Order, Administrator, and Understanding of Citizens’ Rights, Whether They Have Those Rights or not. Each ideology has unique principles, values, and methods for addressing societal issues and guiding political action.

List of Political Ideologies

Political ideologies are sets of beliefs that guide how society should be organised and governed. Major ideologies include liberalism, conservatism, socialism, nationalism, feminism, secularism, and environmentalism. The List of Political Ideologies is given below.

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Major Political Ideologies

1. Anarchism

Anarchism is a political philosophy that opposes all forms of authority and hierarchical control, advocating for a society free from the government, which they see as both unnecessary and harmful. Anarchists have historically been involved with the anti-capitalist and socialist movements.

2. Authoritarianism

Authoritarianism is a political ideology that centralises power through political ideas and rejects political pluralism. Authoritarianism uses forceful and coercive means to create order and govern society. Dictatorships run by soldiers (military) and autocracy are examples of authoritarianism.

3. Communitarianism

Communitarianism places importance on the complex relationship between individuals and their communities. Individual identity and values come from the community through social relationships. Therefore, while communitarianism is not as focused on individual welfare as individualism is, it does place a higher priority on the welfare of the community and shared responsibilities among all members of the community.

4. Communism

Communism is a socio-political and economic ideology that supports the idea that the means of production should be owned collectively by the people. The ultimate goal of communism is to create a society without inequality, private property, and money, and to promote collective welfare. It advocates for a society free of class divisions.

5. Conservatism

Conservatism as a political philosophy emphasises the preservation of traditional values and social institutions. Conservatism tends to oppose both radical changes and modern policy. The specific principles of conservatism vary by region, according to the cultural values of that area and historical events in that area’s past.

6. Corporatism

Corporatism promotes organising society through corporate groups based on shared interests, such as labour, business, agriculture, or military. It emphasises collective decision-making within these groups. Corporatism seeks to align social and economic structures with the common good.

7. Democracy

Democracy is a system of government where power rests with the people. Citizens have the right to elect representatives and participate in law-making. It is founded on principles of equality, freedom, and accountability in governance.

8. Environmentalism

Environmentalism is a social and political ideology which focuses on protecting nature and creating a healthy balance between living creatures and the environment. Environmentalists advocate for protecting natural resources through sustainable development of industries and their products by promoting harmony between humans, animal life and the environment.

9. Fascism and Nazism

Fascism is an authoritarian ideology characterised by ultranationalism, dictatorial power, and suppression of opposition. Nazism is a variant of fascism with a strong disdain for liberal democracy and parliamentary governance. Both prioritise rigid societal control and state supremacy.

10. Identity Politics

Identity politics focuses on political agendas based on shared characteristics like race, religion, gender, or social background. It aims to address inequalities and representation issues affecting specific groups. This ideology often contrasts “the people” against dominant societal elites.

11. Feminism

Feminism encompasses movements and ideologies that advocate for gender equality. It seeks political, economic, personal, and social rights for women and marginalised genders. Feminism challenges patriarchal norms and promotes empowerment across societies.

12. Liberalism

Liberalism is a philosophy emphasises individual liberty, equality before the law, and consent of the governed. It supports democracy, free expression, and the protection of fundamental rights. Liberalism forms the foundation of many modern democratic states.

13. Libertarianism

Libertarianism is a political ideology rooted in liberal principles, emphasising personal freedom and minimal government intervention. It advocates for individual choice in both economic and social spheres. Libertarianism seeks to maximise liberty while limiting state control.

14. Nationalism

Nationalism is the belief that a nation should have sovereignty over its own affairs. It promotes unity and prioritises the interests of the nation. Nationalism often inspires movements for independence, self-governance, or national pride.

15. Populism

Populism is a political stance that emphasises the power and voice of the common people. It often portrays a struggle between the “people” and a perceived elite group. Populist movements can influence both policies and political rhetoric significantly.

16. Progressivism

Progressivism supports social reform and advocates for progress through science, technology, and economic development. It aims to improve society by addressing social inequalities and promoting modernisation. Progressives focus on enhancing human welfare and societal advancement.

Political Ideologies in India

India is a diverse country where multiple political ideologies coexist and compete, shaping its democratic governance and policy-making. These ideologies guide political parties, social movements, and governance approaches, reflecting the country’s historical, social, and cultural diversity. Some of the political ideologies in India are:

1. Secularism

Secularism is the ideology that emphasises the separation of religion from the state. It ensures that religion remains a personal choice and does not interfere in governance or public affairs. In India, secularism also promotes pluralism, tolerance, and respect for all religions. Secularism is the basic structure doctrine of the Indian Constitution.

2. Hindutva

Hindutva is an ideology that asserts the primacy of Hinduism and Hindu culture in India. It promotes the idea that India is fundamentally a Hindu nation, and policies should reflect Hindu values.

3. Socialism

Socialism advocates social ownership and equitable control over production and distribution. Socialists argue that capitalism leads to inequality, exploitation, and alienation, and emphasise social justice, cooperation, and solidarity. Socialism has been influential in India since independence, particularly among the Congress and Left parties.

4. Gandhism

Gandhism is based on the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, emphasising non-violence, truth, simplicity, and self-reliance. Gandhians advocate for rural development, swadeshi (local production), sarvodaya (welfare for all), and gram swaraj (village self-rule). This ideology inspired movements like the Quit India Movement, the Chipko Movement, and Anna Hazare’s campaigns.

5. Ambedkarism

Ambedkarism is based on the ideas and activism of Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. Ambedkarites prioritise equality, liberty, and fraternity, and advocate for the rights and dignity of oppressed castes, especially Dalits. The ideology has influenced parties like the BSP and movements for social justice.

• Advocates for social justice and caste equality.
• Supports constitutional safeguards for marginalised groups.
• Influences Dalit empowerment movements and policies.

6. Liberalism

Liberalism emphasises individual liberty, equality before the law, and consent of the governed. It supports democratic institutions, freedom of expression, and protection of human rights.

• Protects individual freedoms.
• Promotes democratic governance.
• Encourages pluralism and tolerance.

7. Feminism

Feminism seeks gender equality and empowerment of women across social, political, and economic spheres. It challenges patriarchal norms and advocates legal reforms to ensure equal opportunities for all genders.

• Gender equality in all domains.
• Eliminates discrimination and patriarchal bias.
• Promotes women’s political, social, and economic empowerment.

8. Environmentalism

Environmentalism focuses on ecological conservation and sustainable development. It emphasises harmony between humans and nature and advocates policies to protect natural resources.

• Protection of natural resources.
• Promotes sustainable development.
• Encourages ecological balance and climate action.

9. Nationalism

Nationalism emphasises unity, sovereignty, and the interests of the nation above all. It often fosters patriotism, pride in national identity, and policies prioritising national development.

• Promotes national unity and sovereignty.
• Prioritises national interests in governance.
• Encourages citizen participation in nation-building.