antipluralist

Antipluralist describes a stance or a person who rejects or suppresses political, cultural, or social plurality in favor of a single, dominant set of norms, values, or authority. The term can apply to theoretical positions as well as to individuals who advocate or embody such principles.

In political theory, antipluralism opposes the idea that diverse opinions, groups, or cultures should have equal political standing; it favors centralization of power, standardization of beliefs, suppression of dissent, or homogenization of identities. This approach tends to prioritize a unified political or cultural order over accommodation of differences.

Historical contexts include authoritarian regimes and nationalist movements that promote antipluralist policies by enforcing censorship, persecuting minorities, or suppressing opposition, as well as efforts to impose a uniform ideology or national culture. Such policies are often justified in terms of social cohesion, national security, or efficiency, but they frequently provoke resistance and accusations of rights violations.

Antipluralism is widely contrasted with liberal pluralism, multiculturalism, and rights-based governance. Critics argue that it undermines individual rights, minority protections, and democratic legitimacy, while defenders contend that some forms of unity can support stability or collective action in specific circumstances. The concept is used descriptively in political science and sociology to analyze movements, policies, or regimes that seek to minimize or eliminate pluralistic participation.

Related concepts include pluralism, monoculturalism, centralization, and totalitarianism.