precedentism; reliance on precedent
Refers to the principle or tendency of following established precedents rather than trying new approaches. Often used in critical or analytical contexts.
See also: 前例主義
If you are bound by precedentism, new ideas won't emerge.
This organization's reliance on precedent is a major obstacle to reform.
Synonym with the same meaning; 前例主義 is the more common term, while 先例主義 is a less frequent variant.
Compound of 先例 (precedent) and 主義 (principle, -ism). The exact origin is uncertain, but it likely emerged as a calque or translation of Western concepts of legal or organizational precedent.