Integralist

An Integralist is an individual who adheres to or advocates for a political or religious ideology that emphasizes the unity and integration of all aspects of life, including politics, religion, and society, under a single overarching system or authority. Integralists typically believe in a strong, centralized power structure and may oppose pluralism, secularism, and the separation of church and state. They often seek a return to traditional values and social structures. This can manifest differently depending on the context, encompassing religious fundamentalism to nationalist ideologies, all sharing the common thread of holistic unification.

Integralist meaning with examples

• The political scientist argued that the candidate’s platform, which blended religious principles with government policy, showed he was an Integralist seeking to reshape society based on a specific religious framework. Critics worried such ideas might undermine democratic principles and individual freedoms.
• In historical studies, the rise of Integralist movements, particularly in the interwar period, is analyzed. These movements, both religious and secular, often proposed strong state control and a rejection of liberal democracies, aiming for complete social and economic reform under a single overarching philosophy.
• The journalist’s exposé on the fringe group revealed its Integralist beliefs. They advocated for a return to a unified national identity, rejecting multiculturalism and globalization, perceiving them as threats to the traditional values and cultural cohesion of the nation.
• Discussing the historical context of the term, scholars recognize that an Integralist approach to governance has been used by several prominent leaders throughout history. They tried to combine political authority with religious rule, making sure to solidify their power.
• The philosopher presented a complex argument, that Integralist thought can be a double edged sword; in an era of uncertainty, they can provide stability, but can also remove all dissent by the suppression of any ideas differing from their own.