ˈlēgəˌlizəm sometimes ˈlig- noun
( -s )
1. : the principles and practices characterizing the theological doctrine of strict conformity to a code of deeds and observances (as the Mosaic law) as a means of justification
the first great battle which the Church had to fight was with Jewish legalism — R.C.Trench
the worship of the Bible with its attending moralism, legalism , and obscurantism — Saturday Review
2.
a. : an often excessive reliance on legal principles and practices especially as interpreted literally : an adherence to the letter as distinguished from the spirit of the law : an emphasis on the importance of formulated rules (as for governing conduct)
a revolt against formalism and legalism … inspired by American pragmatic philosophy — T.I.Cook
the best that can be said for ritualistic legalism is that it improves conduct — Aldous Huxley
b. : a legal term or rule often having little or no meaning in actual practice
sterile legalisms developed … to make war respectable — R.H.Jackson
3. usually capitalized : the philosophy of the Chinese Legalists
the contrast between Confucianism and Legalism — Times Literary Supplement