A manifesto is a public declaration, often political in nature, that outlines the principles, intentions, and views of its issuer, usually a person, group, or political party. Originating from the Italian word ‘manifesto’ and the Latin term ‘manifestum,’ which means clear or conspicuous, it first came into English usage around 1620. Manifestos have played a significant role in influencing various ideologies and movements. Renowned examples include ‘The Communist Manifesto’ that established the fundamentals of communism, and the ‘Port Huron Statement’ advocating for enhanced democracy and social justice. Other forms of manifestos also exist, such as art manifestos and political party manifestos. This term is commonly used in political discourse[1], often in relation with concepts like election promises and party platforms.
This article may lack focus or may be about more than one topic. In particular, is it a list article, or about manifestos, generally? If it's a definition, it should be transwikified to Wiktionary. (September 2023) |
A manifesto is a written declaration of the intentions, motives, or views of the issuer, be it an individual, group, political party, or government. A manifesto usually accepts a previously published opinion or public consensus or promotes a new idea with prescriptive notions for carrying out changes the author believes should be made. It often is political, social or artistic in nature, sometimes revolutionary, but may present an individual's life stance. Manifestos relating to religious belief are generally referred to as creeds or confessions of faith.
