manchesterism means A sociopolitical and economic movement of the 19th century that originated in Manchester, England, and argued that free trade would lead to a more equitable society, making essential products available to all. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 87 out of 100.
Why “manchesterism” is a great word
A 19th-century sociopolitical doctrine, originating in the textile capital of England, which held that universal free trade was the essential mechanism for global peace and prosperity. Its name is a toponym, deriving from the industrial city of Manchester, England, with the suffix -ism denoting a distinctive practice or system. Unlike "mercantilism" (which sought national advantage through state-controlled trade barriers) or "socialism" (which called for collective ownership to curb industrial excess), Manchesterism was a secular faith in the self-regulating market as a moral force. It is the rhythmic clatter of looms fed by duty-free cotton, the scent of ink on pamphlets arguing that cheap bread would quell unrest, and the unshakable conviction that if goods do not cross borders, armies will—a belief that found its cathedral in a warehouse and conflated economic liberty with human destiny.
Etymology
From Manchester + -ism.
noun
- A sociopolitical and economic movement of the 19th century that originated in Manchester, England, and argued that free trade would lead to a more equitable society, making essential products available to all.
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