particularismo

Particularismo is a term used in several academic disciplines, most notably in political science, history, and linguistics, to describe a focus on or adherence to specific, often local or regional, characteristics, interests, or identities, rather than a universal or general principle. In a political context, particularism can refer to policies or actions that prioritize the needs and concerns of a particular group, region, or nation over broader, universal ideals or the interests of other groups. It stands in contrast to universalism, which emphasizes common humanity and shared principles.

Historically, particularism has played a significant role in the development of nation-states, where distinct regional identities and loyalties often preceded or coexisted with national ones. In linguistics, particularism refers to the study of individual languages and their unique features, as opposed to comparative linguistics, which seeks universal grammatical structures. Similarly, in philosophy, it can denote an ethical stance that emphasizes context-dependent moral judgments rather than adherence to absolute, universal moral laws. The concept often carries connotations of being exclusionary or parochial, but it can also highlight the importance of diversity and the recognition of unique cultural or historical circumstances.