Doctrinarians

Doctrinarians are individuals who rigidly adhere to a particular set of doctrines or principles, often to the exclusion of practicality or compromise. They prioritize abstract ideology over real-world considerations and can be inflexible in their beliefs. This often results in a judgmental or dogmatic approach to any situation that doesn't perfectly align with their pre-defined rules. They believe in the absolute correctness of their viewpoint and expect others to share their conviction. They can be found in both political, religious and cultural areas. Their emphasis is placed on the ideal, the systematic, or the principled rather than on the pragmatic and flexible. They often find nuance and compromise distasteful.

Doctrinarians meaning with examples

• The party's internal struggles were often attributed to the hardline stance of the doctrinarians who refused to budge on their core principles, leading to stalemate and a loss of electoral support. Their uncompromising approach alienated moderate voters, making it difficult to build a broad coalition. Many strategies were lost in the shuffle because of those strict dogmas. Negotiations became almost impossible to even consider, leading to a standstill.
• Religious communities sometimes contain doctrinarians who insist on a literal interpretation of scripture, dismissing scientific evidence or historical context that contradicts their established beliefs. They often interpret the world through their own lenses. Attempts at ecumenical dialogue or interfaith understanding are often thwarted because of the inflexibility that is a part of this approach and their commitment to rigid dogma. There is often intolerance displayed.
• In academic circles, doctrinarians might fiercely defend a particular philosophical school or methodology, dismissing alternative perspectives as invalid or inferior. Intellectual debates can become more about defending a dogma than exploring new ideas. These debates may be filled with a lack of empathy. Innovation can be suppressed through these tactics. The focus is on an ideal.
• Critics accused the government of being influenced by doctrinarians when a series of inflexible economic policies were implemented, damaging the country's growth. These policies were based on abstract models. The lack of flexibility led to widespread discontent. There were unforeseen consequences and the policies had unintended adverse effects. Their dogmatism created problems.
• The art world sometimes witnesses doctrinarians who dictate what is considered “true” art, rejecting new forms of expression. Their inflexible beliefs in past ideas caused problems for artists wanting to express new thoughts. New artists are suppressed as a result. These individuals dismiss novel artistic innovations. They are rigid in their approach.