Dictionary Definition
legalism n : strict conformity to the letter of
the law rather than its spirit
User Contributed Dictionary
English
Noun
- A philosophy of focusing on the text of written law to the exclusion of the intent of law, elevating strict adherence to law over justice, mercy and common sense.
- A legal axiom; a statement couched as a proverb expressing a rule of law.
Antonyms
Derived terms
Extensive Definition
Legalism may refer to:
In philosophy:
- Legalism (Western philosophy), a concept in Western jurisprudence
- Legalism (Chinese philosophy), one of the four chief philosophic schools in China during the Warring States Period
- Legalism (Korean philosophy), school of Korean legal thought originating in Korea's Joseon Dynasty related to the Chinese philosophical tradition of legalism
In theology:
- Legalism (theology), a sometimes pejorative term relating to a number of concepts in the Christian theological tradition
legalism in Dutch: Legalisme
legalism in Swedish: Legalism
legalism in Turkish: Legalism (anlam
ayrım)