IDIOCRACY Meaning and
Definition
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Idiocracy refers to a social or cultural condition characterized by a decline in intelligence, critical thinking, and overall societal competence. The term is derived from the combination of the words "idiot" and "democracy," highlighting the notion that a society may progressively be governed or influenced by those lacking intelligence and wisdom. Idiocracy is often depicted as a dystopian scenario where the ignorant and unintelligent dominate positions of power, leading to disastrous consequences and a downward spiral in social, political, and intellectual progress.
In this context, idiocracy can also refer to a satirical film called "Idiocracy" directed by Mike Judge. This comedy portrays a future society where an average individual from the present day is cryogenically preserved and wakes up centuries later to find a society devoid of critical thinking, scientific advancement, and common sense.
Furthermore, idiocracy can be used more broadly to describe any situation or environment where intellectual, rational, and informed discourse is disregarded, and decisions are made primarily based on shallow or uninformed perspectives. It implies a society where anti-intellectualism, misinformation, and pseudoscience gain popularity, and individuals who possess knowledge or expertise struggle to exert influence or be taken seriously.
Overall, idiocracy encompasses the concept of a society that values ignorance or mediocrity over intellectual growth and reasoned decision-making, resulting in a decline in overall societal intelligence and progress.
Common Misspellings for IDIOCRACY
Etymology of IDIOCRACY
The word "idiocracy" is a neologism that combines the prefix "idio-" from the Greek word "idios", meaning "own" or "private", and the suffix "-cracy" from the Greek word "kratos", meaning "power" or "rule". The term was popularized by the 2006 satirical film titled "Idiocracy", directed by Mike Judge.
In the context of the film, "idiocracy" refers to a future society where intellectual and cultural decline has resulted in a lack of critical thinking and a predominance of stupidity. While the word itself has no historical or linguistic roots, it effectively conveys the concept of a society governed by individuals lacking intelligence or common sense.
