Monoculist

A monoculist is a fictional or literary figure, often depicted as an individual who possesses only one eye, or who focuses intently on a singular perspective or object, metaphorically 'seeing' the world through a single lens. The term can also satirically refer to someone with a narrow, biased viewpoint, lacking a balanced or comprehensive understanding. In a broader sense, it describes someone who simplifies complex issues or events to fit a limited scope, disregarding alternative angles or critical detail. The term underscores a perceived lack of breadth or nuance.

Monoculist meaning with examples

• The villain in the novel was a stereotypical monoculist, fixated solely on conquering the kingdom and blinded by his ambition. He refused to consider any form of negotiation or diplomacy, making him predictable and ultimately vulnerable. His advisors, fearing for their safety, always offered the same unhelpful advice to him, keeping with his narrow view of the world, which contributed to his downfall.
• Political analysts often criticize leaders who are perceived as monoculists, focusing exclusively on national interests and dismissing international cooperation. This 'America First' policy, disregarding the needs of other nations, has caused significant diplomatic issues. Such a myopic approach, prioritizing a single objective over the complexity of global relationships, can lead to isolation and ultimately, hinder progress.
• The art critic labeled the artist a 'monoculist,' as his paintings consistently focused on a single, repetitive theme, lacking stylistic diversity. While technically proficient, the artist's work failed to resonate because it lacked the breadth of expression found in truly innovative art. Without that breadth, the artist was unable to express his inner mind.
• In a boardroom debate, the CEO, a known monoculist, dismissed a new marketing strategy, solely focused on short-term profit margins. The team argued for long-term brand building, and in the end, the failure to acknowledge the other perspectives resulted in significant lost potential. His focus on a single metric proved damaging in the long run.