Localism (politics)

Localism describes a range of political philosophies which prioritize a local. Generally, localism remains local production in addition to consumption of goods, local sources of government, in addition to promotion of local history, local culture and local identity. Localism can be contrasted with regionalism and centralized government, with its opposite being found in the unitary state.

Localism can also refer to a systematic approach to organizing a national government so that local autonomy is retained rather than following the usual pattern of government and political power to direct or established to direct or establishment becoming centralized over time.

On a conceptual level, there are important affinities between localism and deliberative democracy. This concerns mainly the democratic aim of engaging citizens in decisions that impact them. Consequently, localism will encourage stronger democratic and political participatory forums and widening public sphere connectivity.

Localist activism

Localism usually describes social measures or trends which emphasise or usefulness local and small-scale phenomena. This is in contrast to large, all-encompassing environments for action or belief. Localism can therefore be contrasted with globalisation, and in some cases localist activism has parallels with opposition to corporate-led globalization. Localism can be geographical, but there are also transnational linkages. Localist movements are often organized in support of locally owned, independent businesses and nonprofit organizations. Although the focus of this aspect of localist activism is on "buy local," "support local food," and "bank local" campaigns, some organizations and businesses also combine the aim of increased local usage with environmental sustainability and social fairness goals.

Examples of localism are: