Credo vs. Dogma: What's the Difference?
By Harlon Moss & Janet White || Updated on May 22, 2024
Credo is a personal or group statement of beliefs or principles, while dogma is an authoritative set of principles laid down by an institution, often religious, as incontrovertibly true.
Key Differences
Credo refers to a personal or collective statement of beliefs, often reflecting individual or group principles and philosophies. It is typically more flexible and subject to interpretation, allowing for personal adaptation and variation. Dogma, on the other hand, denotes an established set of principles or doctrines, often religious, that are proclaimed by an authoritative body and are expected to be accepted without question. Dogma tends to be rigid, leaving little room for personal interpretation.
In personal contexts, a credo provides a guideline for how an individual or a group might choose to live and act, encapsulating their core values and ethics. For instance, a company might have a credo stating its commitment to sustainability. Conversely, dogma typically dictates a set of beliefs that followers are expected to adhere to strictly, often within religious institutions. For instance, the concept of the Trinity is a fundamental dogma in Christianity.
The origin of these terms also highlights their differences. Credo, derived from the Latin word for "I believe," underscores a personal or communal declaration of faith or philosophy. Dogma, from the Greek for "opinion" or "decree," indicates a formalized doctrine imposed by an authority.
While credos can evolve and change with new insights and perspectives, dogmas are usually resistant to change, maintaining their position as foundational truths within a particular belief system. This distinction makes credos more adaptable and personal, whereas dogmas are fixed and institutional.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Personal or group statement of beliefs
Authoritative set of principles
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Flexibility
Flexible and open to interpretation
Rigid and authoritative
Context
Personal, philosophical, corporate
Religious, institutional
Origin
Latin "I believe"
Greek "opinion" or "decree"
Example Sentence
"My credo is to live honestly."
"The church's dogma must be followed."
Credo and Dogma Definitions
Credo
A personal statement of beliefs.
Her credo emphasizes the importance of kindness.
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Dogma
A belief or set of beliefs laid down by an authority.
Adherents must accept the church's dogma.
Credo
A philosophy or set of values.
Their credo is to innovate continually.
Dogma
An established belief system.
The dogma of free market capitalism dominates the economy.
Credo
A formal declaration of religious faith.
The Apostles' Creed is a central Christian credo.
Dogma
A doctrine proclaimed as incontrovertibly true.
Scientific dogma can sometimes stifle innovation.
Credo
A mission statement.
His credo in life is to help others succeed.
Dogma
An authoritative principle or doctrine.
The dogma of the Trinity is central to Christian faith.
Credo
A creed.
Dogma
A fixed set of principles.
Political dogma can lead to polarized views.
Credo
The Apostles' Creed.
Dogma
A doctrine or a corpus of doctrines relating to matters such as morality and faith, set forth in an authoritative manner by a religion.
Credo
The Nicene Creed, especially as the third item of the Ordinary of the Roman Catholic Mass.
Dogma
A principle or statement of ideas, or a group of such principles or statements, especially when considered to be authoritative or accepted uncritically
"Much education consists in the instilling of unfounded dogmas in place of a spirit of inquiry" (Bertrand Russell).
Credo
The musical setting of the Nicene Creed.
Dogma
An authoritative principle, belief or statement of opinion, especially one considered to be absolutely true and indisputable, regardless of evidence or without evidence to support it.
Credo
A statement of a belief or a summary statement of a whole belief system; also (metonymically) the belief or belief system itself.
Dogma
A doctrine (or set of doctrines) relating to matters such as morality and faith, set forth authoritatively by a religious organization or leader.
In the Catholic Church, new dogmas can only be declared by the pope after the extremely rare procedure ex cathedra to make them part of the official faith.
Credo
(Christianity) The liturgical creed (usually the Nicene Creed), or a musical arrangement of it for use in church services.
Credo III is so beautiful!
Dogma
That which is held as an opinion; a tenet; a doctrine.
The obscure and loose dogmas of early antiquity.
Credo
The creed, as sung or read in the Roman Catholic church.
He repeated Aves and Credos.
Dogma
A formally stated and authoritatively settled doctrine; a definite, established, and authoritative tenet.
Credo
Any system of principles or beliefs
Dogma
A doctrinal notion asserted without regard to evidence or truth; an arbitrary dictum.
Credo
A guiding principle for a group.
The company's credo focuses on sustainability.
Dogma
A religious doctrine that is proclaimed as true without proof
Dogma
A doctrine or code of beliefs accepted as authoritative;
He believed all the Marxist dogma
FAQs
How is credo used in a sentence?
E.g., "My personal credo is to always be honest."
How is dogma used in a sentence?
E.g., "The church's dogma must be accepted by all its members."
Is dogma flexible?
No, dogma is usually rigid and must be adhered to strictly.
Can a credo change over time?
Yes, a credo can evolve with new insights and experiences.
What is a dogma?
Dogma is an authoritative set of principles laid down by an institution as incontrovertibly true.
Is credo flexible?
Yes, a credo is often flexible and open to personal interpretation.
Can credo be personal?
Yes, a credo can be a personal statement of one's beliefs and values.
What is an example of a religious credo?
The Apostles' Creed in Christianity is an example of a religious credo.
What is a credo?
A credo is a personal or group statement of beliefs or principles.
Is credo used outside of religious contexts?
Yes, credos can be found in personal philosophies, corporate values, and mission statements.
Is dogma used outside of religious contexts?
Yes, dogma can refer to any established set of principles in fields like politics or science.
How does dogma function in a religious context?
In a religious context, dogma defines the core doctrines that followers must accept.
Can dogma change over time?
Dogma tends to be resistant to change and is maintained as a foundational truth.
Who establishes dogma?
Dogma is established by authoritative institutions, often religious bodies.
What is the origin of the word 'dogma'?
The word 'dogma' comes from the Greek for "opinion" or "decree."
How does a credo function in a corporate context?
A corporate credo outlines the guiding principles and values of a company.
What is an example of a religious dogma?
The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception in Catholicism is an example of religious dogma.
Can a credo be part of a cultural identity?
Yes, a credo can be central to a group's cultural or philosophical identity.
Can dogma influence societal norms?
Yes, dogma can significantly influence societal norms and behaviors, especially in religiously guided societies.
What is the origin of the word 'credo'?
The word 'credo' comes from the Latin for "I believe."
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Co-written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
