The word "dogma" is spelled with four letters, D-O-G-M-A. Its pronunciation is /ˈdɑːɡmə/ with stress on the first syllable. The /d/ sound is produced by touching the tip of the tongue to the teeth ridge behind the upper front teeth. /ɑː/ is a long vowel sound produced with an open mouth. The /ɡ/ sound is pronounced by touching the back of the tongue to the soft palate. The final syllable is pronounced with a short /ə/ sound, similar to the schwa sound.
Dogma is a noun that refers to a set of beliefs or principles that are accepted as unquestionable and true by a specific group or organization. It is primarily used to describe rigid principles or doctrines that are considered established and authoritative within a particular religious, philosophical, or ideological system. Dogmas often serve as the foundation of these systems and are upheld as fundamental truths that should not be challenged or questioned.
In religious contexts, dogmas are often formulated by religious institutions and are considered sacred and divinely revealed truths that form the basis of faith. These dogmas often define core principles such as the existence of a higher power, the nature of divinity, or the path to salvation. Adherents are expected to accept these dogmas without doubt or skepticism.
Outside of religious contexts, dogma can also be used to describe inflexible ideologies or beliefs that are unquestioningly accepted by a particular group or community. These dogmas can be present in political, social, or cultural spheres. The term is often associated with closed-mindedness or intolerance towards ideas that contradict or challenge the established principles.
Although dogma can provide cohesion and a sense of identity to groups, it can also hinder critical thinking and limit intellectual progress. Challenging dogmas can be seen as a way to promote independent thought and encourage new perspectives.
The word "dogma" originated from the Greek word "dogma" (δόγμα), meaning "opinion" or "belief". It is derived from the verb "dokein" (δοκεῖν), which means "to seem" or "to appear". Dogma has been adopted by various languages, including Latin and English, with its meaning evolving slightly over time. It originally referred to authoritative opinions or principles, particularly those established by philosophers, before later becoming associated with specific religious or ideological beliefs that are considered unquestionable.