communalism
(see preceding)
[f. prec. + -ism: cf. mod.F. communalisme.]
The principle of the communal organization of society: a theory of government which advocates the widest extension of local autonomy for each locally definable community. Hence communalist, a supporter of this system, or an adherent of the Commune of Paris of 1871. communaˈlistic a., of or pertaining to this theory.
| 1871 J. Leighton Paris under the Commune viii. 206 Communalism here presents a singular likeness to Communism. 1872 Besant & Rice Ready Money Mort. viii, One who battles for a hopeless cause like a Communalist of Paris. 1880 Swinburne Let. 23 Feb. (1960) IV. 130 The very interesting letter from one of your communalistic allies. 1968 E. African Law Jrnl. IV. 12 By its nature, Islamic law is individualistic while customary law as such is communalistic. |