Conventionalist

A conventionalist is an individual who adheres to established norms, customs, traditions, and beliefs within a particular society or group. They often prioritize accepted practices and established ways of doing things, demonstrating a preference for predictability and stability. This adherence can manifest in various aspects of life, from social etiquette and artistic expression to scientific methodologies and philosophical thought. Conventionalists may be hesitant to embrace change or deviate from established norms, valuing the comfort and security of the familiar. Their approach is often rooted in a respect for history, authority, and the collective wisdom of past generations. They frequently see novelty with a cautious eye and may view radical departures from the norm with skepticism or disapproval.

Conventionalist meaning with examples

• The art critic, a staunch conventionalist, dismissed the abstract paintings as incomprehensible and lacking the traditional beauty he valued. He preferred classical realism, finding comfort in the familiar landscapes and portraits. The artist's innovative techniques and challenging themes were considered too disruptive to his established notions of artistic merit, seeing the pieces with a conservative viewpoint. This rejection highlighted the critic's loyalty to established artistic principles.
• In matters of social etiquette, the conventionalist insisted on following strict protocols, such as sending handwritten thank-you notes and adhering to formal dress codes for special events. He believed these customs fostered respect and maintained social order, seeing them as key to social cohesion. Breaking those unwritten rules was considered a sign of disrespect. His adherence to those traditions reflected his preference for predictable and polite interactions.
• The scientist, a methodological conventionalist, followed the established scientific method precisely, meticulously replicating experiments and relying on peer-reviewed publications. She resisted exploring novel research methods, fearing they might compromise the reliability of the data. She valued the objectivity and rigorous processes, prioritizing replicability and reproducibility within the field. New approaches were only considered if they fit the traditional framework.
• The philosopher, a philosophical conventionalist, upheld established moral principles and questioned radical ethical theories that challenged the traditional frameworks. He valued tradition and existing philosophical systems, rejecting new views or approaches that deviated from established lines of thought. His beliefs reflected his strong belief in the wisdom of past thinkers, prioritizing the long-held ethical concepts.