formalism Definition

formalism
noun

1. Concern, especially excessive concern, with outward form, to the exclusion of content.
2. math.
The mathematical or logical structure of a scientific argument, consisting of formal rules and symbols which are intrinsically meaningless.
3. literary theory.
Concern with literary technique and analysis to the exclusion of social and historical content

Derivative: formalist
noun

Derivative: formalistic
adj

Etymology: 19c.

Etymology: referring in particular to a Russian literary group of the early 20c that promoted this approach to literary analysis.