Шаблон:Short descriptionCatonism refers to a repressive social order that supports those in power and opposes reforms and development, particularly those that would benefit the peasantry.[1] It is based on the romantic political view that gives more weight to the organic and whole nature of peasant culture.[1]
Barrington Moore introduced Catonism in his book Social Origins of Dictatorship and Democracy as the "advocacy of the sterner virtues, militarism, contempt for 'decadent' foreigners and anti-intellectualism".[2]
Moore coined the word "Catonism" with a nod towards Cato the Elder (234-149 BCE).[3] He characterized the Catonist attitude as the reaction from rural aristocracy towards rapid political and economic changes.
Шаблон:Off topic section
The social order has three core beliefs. The first is the notion that liberty is the highest good and that sacrifices made for its achievement is a worthy pursuit.[4] The second is the belief that service to one's country constitutes an individual's most important calling.[4] Finally, it holds that the proper outlook towards power must be anchored on vigilance since authority can be utilized to achieve a specific purpose or advance an interest.[4] Moreover, policies are not supported to obtain happiness or wealth but to contribute to a way of life that proved valid in the past.[5]
