Word
dogma
Meanings
A set of beliefs accepted as true without being questioned, especially in religion or ideology.
A rigid opinion or principle that is treated as unquestionable, even when evidence suggests otherwise.
Definition
Dogma is a set of beliefs that people accept as unquestionably true, often within a religion or ideology.
Dogma refers to fixed ideas or principles that are presented as true and not open to debate. It is often linked to religious teachings, but it can also describe rigid political, social, or organizational beliefs. The word usually suggests an inflexible attitude toward evidence or alternative viewpoints.
Examples
- The professor challenged the dogma that economic growth automatically improves everyone’s well-being.
- I respected their traditions, but I struggled with the dogma that discouraged honest questions.
- She rejected the dogma of her former organization and began evaluating claims against evidence.
- They treated the policy as dogma, even after the results clearly contradicted their assumptions.
Common mistake
Learners often use dogma as a synonym for “religion” itself, but it means specific unquestioned beliefs, not the entire faith or practice.
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