What does sovietism mean?
Sovietism is the name given to the communist ideology and political system associated with the former Soviet Union. It is most closely associated with Marxism-Leninism, a doctrine combining Marxist economic theory with Leninist ideas about party organization, class struggle, and political authority. Although Sovietism may broadly describe support for the Soviet model, it is also sometimes used critically to suggest that an institution or policy resembles Soviet control or ideological conformity. The term is principally historical today, appearing in studies of twentieth-century politics, revolutionary movements, and the development of communism. It should not be confused with socialism in general: socialism encompasses many traditions and approaches, whereas Sovietism identifies the particular version that became associated with the Soviet state.
nounThe political principles, ideology, or system associated with the Soviet Union, especially Marxist-Leninist communism as practised by the Soviet state. The term may also refer to support for Soviet-style political institutions.
- The ideology, principles, and political system associated with the Soviet Union, especially Soviet Marxism-Leninism.
- Support for or advocacy of Soviet-style political institutions and policies.
"The early twentieth century saw the spread of Sovietism beyond Russia, though the term most often evokes the political system of the former Soviet Union."
"Historians have examined the influence of Sovietism on revolutionary movements elsewhere."
"Her political writings were often dismissed by critics as examples of Sovietism."
The plural is uncommon and may refer to distinct Soviet political doctrines or policies.
"The scholars compared the Sovietisms represented by different revolutionary movements."
Sovietism is the political label for a system whose most famous advocate was also the first country to put it into practice.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sovietism come from?
Sovietism was formed in English from Soviet, itself derived from Russian sovet, meaning “council” or “council member,” and the suffix -ism, indicating a doctrine or political system. The political term gained prominence following the Bolshevik Revolution and the establishment of the Soviet state. Its close relatives include Sovietist, denoting a supporter or adherent of Sovietism, and the older political noun Soviet.
How sovietism is actually used
The term is now chiefly historical and may sound formal, political, or polemical. In contemporary use it is often encountered in political history and in criticism of states or movements modelled on the Soviet system.
Easily confused with sovietism
Sovietism denotes the specific ideology and political system associated with the Soviet Union, whereas socialism is a broader family of theories advocating collective or public ownership of economic resources.
Soviet is an adjective or noun referring to the Soviet Union, its institutions, or its citizens, while Sovietism names the ideology associated with that state.