SAVAGISM Meaning and
Definition
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Savagism, also referred to as primitivism, is a concept that encompasses various cultural, social, and behavioral characteristics associated with primitive or tribal societies. It is commonly used to describe the state of uncivilized or barbarous behavior, often associated with early stages of human development or non-Western societies.
As a dictionary definition, savagism refers to the state or quality of being savage, which typically implies a lack of civilization, refinement, or cultural sophistication. It is characterized by primitive or primal customs, practices, rituals, or beliefs that may appear unconventional or uncivilized from the perspective of more advanced or modern societies.
The concept of savagism historically emerged during the age of colonialism as a way for European colonial powers to justify their domination and subjugation of indigenous peoples. It reinforced the idea of European superiority and the need for "civilizing missions" among non-European peoples. However, it is essential to recognize that this definition is inherently biased and perpetuates stereotypes. Referred to as ethnocentrism, it assumes that Western cultures are inherently more civilized or advanced than others, creating a divisive and discriminatory worldview.
In contemporary discourse, the use of "savagism" is generally discouraged due to its derogatory nature and the colonial legacy it carries. The idea of primitive or tribal societies is now approached with more cultural understanding and appreciation for the rich diversity of human cultures throughout history.
Common Misspellings for SAVAGISM
Etymology of SAVAGISM
The word "savagism" is derived from the term "savage", which can be traced back to the late 13th century. It originally comes from the Old French word "sauvage" meaning "wild" or "untamed". This Old French term was derived from the Latin word "silvaticus", meaning "of the woods" or "wild", which, in turn, is derived from "silva", meaning "forest" or "woodland". Over time, "savage" came to be used to describe people or cultures that were perceived as uncivilized, primitive, or lacking in refinement, leading to the development and usage of the term "savagism" to refer to the state or quality of being savage.
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