Definition and Significance of Ideology
Definition and Significance of Ideology
Definition and Significance of Ideology
Significance of
Ideology
Definition
The word "ideology" is composed of two Greek words "ideos-idea“ and "logos-study". It
literally means "the science or study of ideas.
An ideology is a set of opinions, principles or beliefs of a group or an individual. Very often
ideology refers to a set of political beliefs or a set of ideas that characterize a particular
culture (Nazaria).
Ideology of Pakistan is based on Islam. This means that the state of Pakistan was created on
the basis of Islamic Ideology.
The term ideology consists of two Greek words "ideo" and "logos", which means “the science
or study of ideas." The term ideology is a complex discourse in a realm of social sciences due
to controversial approaches among scholars and theorists on its definition and meaning.
Historically, the word “idealogie" was first time used by French thinker Antoine Destutt" de
Tracy during the French revolution. He defined this word as the Science of Ideas concerning
with social and political life.
According to the Karl Marx, he ideology is about ideas of ruling class, who want to maintain
their privileged position and order through the capitalism.
George Brass describes the term ideology: "any plan or program of common life based upon
thinking and philosophy is called ideology."
Definition
French
language in
18th century
Ideos means
In Urdu
Nazaria Ideology ideas & logos
means study
Concept, vision
and ideas
Sources or Content of
Ideology
Despite the controversial approaches to the concept of ideology, the basic
features of concept remain the same. However, the term Ideology can be defined
as a set of socially shared beliefs, norms, values, ideals, convictions, institutions,
goals and a body of knowledge which people believe significant and practicable.
All these features bind the nation together and depict a true reflection and
product of ideology. These certain common traits in almost every ideology
throughout the world are same. It proposes a step forward, for example, a
manifesto or line of action to be followed in order to achieve the desired goal in
the future. The socially shared ideas, speculation and beliefs are associated with
ideologies to justify the existing or desired social or political order.
"A political ideology is a set of shared beliefs, values, norms and principles that
explain and justifies a preferred political order or proposed a new order and
program to nation or civilization. "As mentioned before, the notion of ideology
was originated during the French Revolution which mean, science of ideas. But
the concept of political ideology emerged in early 19th century.
Sources or Content of
Ideology
Common
ideology
Common
Dedication
race
Contents of
ideology
Common
Common
customs &
language
culture
Common
cause
Importance of Ideology
Ideology is a motivational and very significant force behind the
development of a nation.
Ideology gives a right direction and a sense of purpose to a
nation. It provides a platform to scattered social groups in society
and brings them together.
It also plays vital role in nation building.
Furthermore, ideology gives the direction to its followers toward
evolution and revolution.
New norms, values and cultures are shaped by ideologies and
these traits work like a binding force in a society.
The function of ideology is like a backbone in the structure of a
nation, and without it, there is no concept of a nation.
Ideology of Pakistan
The creation of Pakistan is unique in a sense that it is based on the philosophy of
Islam and not on the western concept of nation state. The concept of nation states
emerged in Europe in the early nineteenth century. According to it, the secularism is
a central belief of nation state, in which sovereignty belongs to people. Conversely,
the foundation of Pakistan is based upon the religion of Islam, where all sovereignty
of state and people. belongs to Almighty Allah.
The ideology of Pakistan passed through different phases and evolutionary process.
The popular slogan, "Pakistan Ka Matlab Kia, La Illa ha illa Allah" was the central
theme of freedom movement which provided basis to Pakistan. Historical
experiences raised the consciousness in Muslims of subcontinent that they are quite
different from the Hindus in every aspect of life.
However, Nineteenth Century was a period of great trial and crises for Muslims in
British India. At that time, few people realized the problems of Muslims like Allama
Iqbal provided the philosophical explanation by presenting the idea of separate
homeland for Muslims of subcontinent. Subsequently, M.A Jinnah translated the
abstract ideas of Iqbal into a reality in the form of sovereign Islamic state.
Significance of Ideology
States and country are based on ideology
It Reflects the thinking of a nation
For the Survival of nations
Ideology gives rational meaning to your plan or action
Unity comes from strong ideology
Sense of ownership
Source of Courage
Motivation for struggle
It clarifies your goals and destination as a nation
Foundation of change and revolution
Actions are pushed by strong ideology