Maoism

noun

/ˈmaʊɪzəm/

The political theory and practice derived from the teachings of Mao Zedong, emphasising peasant-based revolution (as opposed to the urban proletariat of orthodox Marxism), guerrilla warfare, mass mobilisation campaigns, and continuous revolution to prevent the emergence of a new ruling class within the communist party itself.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

The persistence of Maoism in the so-called Red Corridor underscores that left-wing extremism is as much a symptom of developmental deficit, land alienation and tribal marginalisation as it is a problem of internal security, demanding a calibrated strategy that pairs firm policing with inclusive governance.

Synonyms

Mao Zedong ThoughtMarxism-Leninism-MaoismNaxalismleft-wing extremismrevolutionary communismpeasant communism

Antonyms

capitalismliberal democracyfree-market liberalism

🌱 Word Family

Maoism (n), Maoist (n/adj), Maoist (adj), anti-Maoist (adj)

🔡 Root

Proper noun: Mao (Mao Zedong, 1893–1976, Chinese communist leader) + -ism (Greek -ismos, doctrine/practice)

📜 Etymology

Named after Mao Zedong (1893-1976); the term was used externally from the 1950s; Mao himself preferred "Marxism-Leninism adapted to Chinese conditions."

🧠 Memory Hook

Mao + -ism: the "ism" of Chairman Mao, whose revolution rose from the countryside, not the city, just as in India it stirs in the forested "Red Corridor" rather than the metros.

🏛️ History & Culture 📖 Seen in: Chinese Revolution & Asian Communism —...

Relevant across:GS1 · History, Geography & Society

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