An ideology refer to a framework of thinking, or a system of beliefs, values, and ideas that shapes how individuals, groups, or societies understand and interpret the world. It also greatly influences how individuals, interacts with the world.

Examples of ideologies includes;

• political ideologies.
• religious ideologies.
• cultural ideologies.

A people’s ideologies are what unifies them. These are what connects them to one another. Ideologies serves as a lens through which they view and navigate complex social realities.

An ideology, either of good or evil intentions, for it to succeed needs the approval of individuals personal orientations. An ideology, no matter the good intentions, if the individuals orientations are corrupted by evil, then the ideology will be disastrous.

The difference between ideologies and orientations

• An ideology is an abstract framework of worldview, often more rigid and deeply held. While orientation is how one practically adapt to social situations, and also often more flexible.
• An ideology is broader, and deals with the whole. While orientation is a bit more personal, and deals with the individual.
• Since an ideology is abstract, it can not be subjected to the concept of good and evil. The good and evil of an ideology, is seen in the practical use and adaptation of an ideology, which is the orientation.
• An ideology is given. Orientation is taken.

An ideology is like a kitchen knife. An individual with a positive orientation knows to use it for chopping vegetables alone. One with a murderous orientation uses the same kitchen knife for murder.

In essence it is safe to say, that an ideology does not qualify an individual, a group or society as good or evil, because it is an abstract framework, or worldview. The real job is in the orientation, which is the practical aspect of an ideology, by the individual, group, or society.

©️ Victor E. Ojei, 2025.

Image sorted from picsart