Associations to the word «Legalism»

Wiktionary

LEGALISM, noun. A philosophy of focusing on the text of written law to the exclusion of the intent of law, elevating strict adherence to law over justice, mercy, grace and common sense.
LEGALISM, noun. A legal axiom; a statement couched as a proverb expressing a rule of law.

Dictionary definition

LEGALISM, noun. Strict conformity to the letter of the law rather than its spirit.

Wise words

Language is a process of free creation; its laws and principles are fixed, but the manner in which the principles of generation are used is free and infinitely varied. Even the interpretation and use of words involves a process of free creation.
Noam Chomsky