Definition of ideology

The word "ideology" originated in the late 18th century in Europe, specifically in French, where it was coined by the philosopher Destutt de Tracy. At the time, he used the term to refer to the study of ideas and their origins, as part of the creation of a new science called "ideology." The term gained broader usage in the early 19th century, particularly in the context of political discussion. Marx and Engels, for example, employed the term "ideology" to critique the ideas and beliefs of the bourgeois class, arguing that these beliefs served to obscure the economic realities of society and functioned as a means of legitimizing the existing power structures. The concept of ideology has since evolved, with varying interpretations and applications in different academic fields and political contexts. Some argue that ideology refers to the system of beliefs and values that underpin social and political institutions, while others view it as a tool for concealing underlying socioeconomic interests. Regardless of its interpretation, the term "ideology" has become a widely used and heavily debated concept in both academic and political discourse.