Parish-pump

Relating to or characterized by a narrow, local perspective, often focusing on the concerns and issues of a small community or area, especially to the exclusion of broader or national issues. This viewpoint prioritizes local interests, often seen as provincial or inward-looking, and can be associated with a lack of understanding or engagement with wider social, political, or economic contexts. It reflects a limited worldview, often focused on the immediate and the familiar.

Parish-pump meaning with examples

• The local council's debate was mired in parish-pump politics, arguing over street cleaning and minor park improvements while ignoring the looming economic crisis. Their focus on immediate local concerns overshadowed any consideration of the wider regional problems. The discussions were utterly removed from any larger strategic considerations of the county’s future.
• The newspaper's coverage was heavily criticized for being 'parish-pump' journalism, primarily featuring gossip and trivial local events, neglecting significant national or international news. While catering to the readers' localized interests, the editorial choices created a disconnect between the local population and the outside world, thus leaving the local population unaware of external events.
• The candidate was accused of running a 'parish-pump' campaign, only addressing local needs such as improved public transport and better recreational amenities, with no substantive policy suggestions on national issues. The lack of wider policy discussions and the concentrated focus on petty concerns reduced the candidate’s perceived scope of responsibilities.
• The villagers' meeting displayed a parish-pump mentality. They were engrossed in the dispute regarding a new dog park location, not addressing the larger issues of regional development or any social matters, showcasing a failure to consider regional issues. Their self-involvement underscored the neglect of broader perspectives.