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Universalism is a broad term used in philosophy, theology, and political thought to describe positions that assert universal applicability or applicability to all contexts. It can refer to the claim that certain principles, truths, or goods hold for all rational beings, regardless of culture, time, or circumstance. In some usages, it also denotes religious or ethical doctrines aimed at the ultimate inclusion or salvation of all people.

In philosophy, universalism often contrasts with relativism or particularism. Moral universalism holds that there are objective moral truths that apply to everyone. A closely related idea is the principle of universalizability, associated with Immanuel Kant, which holds that an action is morally permissible only if the underlying maxim could be willed as a universal law. This form of reasoning seeks a consistent, broadly applicable standard for judging actions.

In theology, universalism most commonly refers to the belief in universal salvation: the idea that all souls will eventually be reconciled with the divine and experience salvation. Historical roots appear in early Christian thought, with later development by universalist theologians and denominations, notably in 18th- and 19th-century American Universalism. In many regions, universalism has merged with Unitarian traditions and today persists within the broader Unitarian Universalist movement, which emphasizes inclusivity and a pluralistic spiritual ethic.

In political and human rights discourse, universalism supports universal rights and standards—such as those proclaimed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—arguing that certain liberties and protections are owed to all humans regardless of nationality, culture, or belief. Critics contend that universalism can overlook local contexts or legitimate cultural differences, prompting debates about how to balance universal principles with particular circumstances.

Overall, universality as a concept seeks cross-cutting applicability, while its concrete doctrines and policies vary across disciplines.