Doctrinaires

Doctrinaires (plural noun) are people who strictly adhere to a specific doctrine or set of beliefs, often with a dogmatic or inflexible approach. They prioritize abstract principles and theories over practical considerations or empirical evidence. Doctrinaires can be found in various fields, including politics, religion, philosophy, and economics. Their unwavering commitment to ideology may lead them to disregard alternative viewpoints or adapt their beliefs to changing circumstances. They are often seen as rigid or unyielding in their thinking and actions, sometimes to a fault.

Doctrinaires meaning with examples

• The political party's platform was criticized for being too doctrinaire, focusing heavily on theoretical economic models without considering the real-world impact on the working class. Their adherence to these abstract principles, rather than practical solutions, alienated many potential voters, ultimately losing them the election.
• During the debates surrounding environmental regulations, some argued the most vocal opponents of change, were doctrinaire in their denial of climate change and refusing to compromise on regulations. This inflexible stance often led to deadlock and prevented the implementation of any effective measures, hindering progress.
• The church's clergy often faced the challenge of managing the expectations of their congregation while still maintaining its doctrinal practices. Some parishioners, were viewed as doctrinaire in their interpretations of religious texts, resisting any suggestions of modernization or reinterpretation of the established religious doctrine.
• In academic circles, the emergence of new theories often resulted in conflict with the established guard of professors who remained doctrinaire in their adherence to long-held beliefs. This resistance to new research and thinking, limited innovation and scientific progression in the specific area, leaving research stagnant.