ABSTRACT
Ideology is a very difficult concept. Whereas it initially meant the systematic study of ideas in terms of their origin or context, it has come to refer to sets of ideas themselves. This kind of reference is often employed pejoratively, indicating a more limited validity for a set of ideas than their holders would like. This limitation, furthermore, often entails the ascription or imputation of a rationale or motivation for holding a set of beliefs or giving expression to a particular constellation of ideas. While those expressing ideas would prefer to see the ideas expressed as having a rather universal validity or correspondence to reality, those claiming the ideological status of those ideas are thereby imputing a self-serving motive or interested position to those claiming universality on behalf of their beliefs.
