noun a strong devotion to the interests of one's own region or section of the country, often at the expense of the national interest
In the context of American history, sectionalism refers to the different economic, social, and political interests that divided the North and South prior to the Civil War.
In sociology, sectionalism may be used to analyze how different social groups or classes within a society have conflicting interests and perspectives.
Economically, sectionalism can refer to disparities in wealth, resources, and development between different regions or sectors of an economy.
Sectionalism can be used to describe the division of political interests and beliefs within a country or region.
Sectionalism can be used in historical writing to discuss the divisions and conflicts between different regions of a country.
Psychologists may study sectionalism as it relates to group identity and intergroup conflict.
Political scientists may analyze sectionalism in the context of voting patterns and political polarization within a country.
Sociologists may examine sectionalism to understand social stratification and inequalities between different regions.