paternalism Definition
- 1the policy or practice on the part of people in positions of authority of restricting the freedom and responsibilities of those subordinate to them in the subordinates' supposed best interest
- 2the attitude or actions of a person, organization, etc., that protects people and gives them what they need but does not give them any responsibility or freedom of choice
Using paternalism: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "paternalism" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company's paternalism extended to providing housing for its workers.
Example
Some argue that the government's welfare policies are a form of paternalism.
Example
The professor's paternalism was evident in his tendency to micromanage his students' work.
paternalism Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for paternalism
- guardianship
- fatherliness
- maternalism
- benevolent dictatorship
Antonyms for paternalism
Phrases with paternalism
the practice of medical professionals making decisions for patients without their input or consent
Example
The doctor's medical paternalism led him to prescribe a treatment without consulting the patient.
a management style in which a company takes responsibility for the well-being of its employees, often by providing benefits and services beyond what is legally required
Example
The CEO's corporate paternalism included offering free childcare and paid parental leave.
a government policy or practice of regulating or controlling people's behavior for their own good, often without their consent
Example
Critics argue that state paternalism infringes on individual liberties and autonomy.
Origins of paternalism
from Latin 'pater' meaning 'father'
Summary: paternalism in Brief
Paternalism [pəˈtəːnəlɪz(ə)m] refers to the policy or practice of restricting the freedom and responsibilities of subordinates in their supposed best interest. It can also describe an attitude or actions that protect people but do not give them any responsibility or freedom of choice. Examples include a company providing housing for its workers or a government implementing welfare policies. Paternalism can be seen in medical, corporate, and state contexts.
