Campism

Campism, in political discourse, refers to a tendency to view international conflicts through a simplified lens, dividing the world into distinct and opposing "camps," and then uncritically supporting one of these camps, regardless of its internal policies or actions. Often, this support stems from the belief that the chosen camp represents a lesser evil or a counterweight to a perceived dominant or more oppressive force.

Campism is most frequently associated with leftist and anti-imperialist ideologies, where it manifests as support for states perceived to be challenging Western hegemony, particularly the United States and its allies, even if those states are authoritarian or have questionable human rights records. This support is often justified by arguing that these states are necessary to resist neocolonialism and maintain a multipolar world.

Critics of campism argue that it leads to the overlooking or excusing of atrocities and abuses committed by regimes within the supported camp, hindering the pursuit of universal human rights and genuine international solidarity. They maintain that a nuanced understanding of each situation is necessary and that supporting oppressive regimes simply because they oppose a rival power is morally indefensible and ultimately counterproductive.

The term "campism" is often used pejoratively, implying a lack of critical thinking and a dogmatic adherence to a predetermined ideological framework. The debate surrounding campism involves complex issues of geopolitical strategy, moral responsibility, and the historical legacy of imperialism.