Paternalism
Nounपितृसत्तात्मक नीति, अभिभावकवाद, पितात्मक व्यवहार
Definition
The policy or practice of restricting the freedom and responsibility of those under one’s care, ostensibly for their own benefit.
Contextual Sentence: "Critics argue that the state's reluctance to disburse direct cash benefits reflects a deeply entrenched paternalism."
💡 Memory Hook (Mnemonic): PATER-NAL-ism: PATER = father — like a father deciding everything for his children 'for their own good'.
Synonyms
Authoritarianism
Maternalism (analogous)
Custodial control
Antonyms
Autonomy
Self-determination
Liberty