Dogmatists

Dogmatists are individuals who treat a body of beliefs as incontrovertible truth, demanding certainty and sometimes resisting contrary evidence. The term derives from dogma, from Latin dogma and Greek dogma meaning “that which seems true” or “of opinion,” and it has long been used to label adherents of established doctrines.

In philosophy and theology, dogmatism denotes the confident assertion of principles as self-evident, often tied to authorities, revelation, or tradition. It is frequently contrasted with skepticism, fallibilism, or critical inquiry, which emphasize openness to revision in light of evidence. Critics have viewed dogmatism as a barrier to inquiry, whereas defenders argue that some core commitments may be reasonably held with certainty.

In religion, dogmatists are those who treat doctrinal positions as binding and non-negotiable, sometimes leading to resistance to reinterpretation or reform. In politics and culture, the label is applied to individuals or groups who insist on immutable principles and dismiss dissent. The term is often pejorative, but some contexts acknowledge that certain frameworks provide stability and moral guidance.

Related terms include dogma, doctrinalism, and fundamentalism; distinctions between dogmatic systems and disciplined, evidence-based belief depend on how evidence, tradition, and authority are weighed.