nonideological

Nonideological is an adjective describing positions, policies, or analyses that are not anchored to a specific ideological framework. It implies an effort to set aside ideological loyalties in favor of practical considerations, empirical findings, or universal values that transcend particular schools of thought.

The term is used in political discourse, journalism, and organizational contexts to signal objectivity or neutrality. It is distinct from nonpartisan or apolitical; nonideological can still engage with political issues but aims to avoid explicit ideological commitments.

In practice, nonideological approaches often emphasize evidence-based methods, technocratic decision making, or pragmatic compromise. Critics argue that true neutrality is difficult or impossible, since values influence what counts as relevant evidence or acceptable tradeoffs.

The label can be strategic rhetoric, masking underlying biases or power relations. Proponents may accept tradeoffs to pursue broad public goals, while opponents may view nonideological claims as privileging the status quo or certain expert perspectives.

See also neutrality, objectivity, technocracy, pragmatism, centrism, nonpartisan governance.