The origin of the word “dogma” can be traced back to the Greek word “dogma,” which means “opinion” or “belief.” Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to refer specifically to:
a set of beliefs or principles that are considered to be true and authoritative within a particular system or community
Today, “dogma” refers to a set of beliefs or principles that are considered to be incontrovertibly true or binding within a particular context or group. In religious contexts, for example, dogma may refer to a set of beliefs that are considered essential to a particular faith or doctrine. In other contexts, such as politics or philosophy, dogma may refer to a set of principles or beliefs that are considered fundamental to a particular ideology or world-view.
The term “dogma” is often associated with rigidity and inflexibility, as it implies a strict adherence to a set of beliefs or principles, often without question or dissent. However, the term can also be used in a positive sense, to refer to a set of beliefs or principles that are considered to be essential and foundational to a particular system of thought or belief.