Origin: Greek suffix -ism
Legalism has 3 different meanings across 1 category:
strict conformity to the letter of the law rather than its spirit
A philosophy of focusing on the text of written law to the exclusion of the intent of law, elevating strict adherence to law over justice, mercy, grace and common sense.
A school of thought, originating in ancient China during the Warring States period and officially adopted during the Qin dynasty, advocating rule of law as key to ensuring social stability.