Characterized by or relating to a focus on the specific interests or needs of a particular group, locality, or individual, rather than a broader, more general perspective. This often involves prioritizing one's own group or interests, potentially at the expense of others or the collective good. It can manifest in social, political, economic, or cultural contexts. The term implies a degree of narrowness and can sometimes be associated with prejudice or discrimination if it leads to unfair treatment or exclusion of those outside the defined group.
Particularistic meaning with examples
- The town's zoning regulations, initially intended to preserve historic character, were criticized as particularistic when they disproportionately favored long-time residents over newcomers and affordable housing initiatives. Critics argued this focused on their specific needs at the exclusion of greater societal needs. It created an environment of social stratification within the community and limited possibilities.
- The debate surrounding federal funding allocations for infrastructure projects often reveals particularistic tendencies, with politicians prioritizing projects in their own districts or states, even if other regions have greater needs. This can lead to inefficiencies and inequities. These narrow local focus may have led to the neglect of national transport and power grids.
- Some scholars argue that early philosophical schools in ancient Greece often demonstrated particularistic ethical frameworks, focusing on virtues and duties specific to their own interpretations of the universe, which lacked broader universal appeal or applicability, like the Stoics. Some were too self-centered. This makes those systems potentially inaccessible to others.
- During times of heightened nationalism, political rhetoric can frequently appeal to particularistic sentiments by emphasizing national identity, cultural heritage, and the perceived threats from external groups, potentially leading to isolationist policies. This fosters division and can make co-operation impossible. It can also lead to war.
- The study found that some businesses displayed a particularistic approach to supplier selection, favoring companies owned by individuals from their own ethnic or racial group, even if other suppliers offered better products or prices. It created biased systems that lacked true business competition. This demonstrated that bias lead to limited choices