noun
- Plural of philistinism; attitudes, behaviors, or beliefs characteristic of a philistine; lack of appreciation for art, culture, or intellectual pursuits; materialism and conformity.
Usage: Usually used in the plural or as a mass noun; Often used critically to describe cultural indifference or anti-intellectualism
Examples
- The critic condemned the philistinisms of modern consumer culture.
- His philistinisms were evident in his dismissal of classical music as boring.
- The university sought to combat philistinisms by promoting the arts and humanities.
- She rejected the philistinisms of her wealthy neighbors who valued only material possessions.
- The author's work challenged the philistinisms prevalent in suburban society.
- Academic institutions have long fought against philistinisms in education.