In some contexts, what I have in mind could potentially be referred to as a manifesto or a party platform or a creed. In such cases, a list of statements covering various topics is crafted through debate and revision and ultimately those who are satisfied will sign on and those who are not won't.
But I have observed something different lately and I feel that there's a word for it which is just beyond my tongue. I have noticed yard signs popping up around my city with a series of slogans covering 8 or 10 hot-button political topics. Each of the slogans represents, more or less, the most prevalent view among American liberals, particularly as expressed on social media. There are not multiple versions: somebody compiled these slogans and printed up a sign and those who wish to identify as part of the movement buy it. I live in a liberal area but you could easily imagine a parallel sign with conservative slogans.
I personally disagree with few if any of the slogans, but the sign still stirs up some discomfort. It feels like a slate of litmus tests. The sign is a way to signal membership in a social group, and responding "Yes, but..." to any single item would disqualify you. This impression is strong especially since these are slogans with loaded language rather than carefully composed statements.
Regardless of whether my apprehension is misplaced in this particular example, what words could describe this notion? A litmus test fits but is just for a single issue, whereas I have in mind a collection of such tests, the effect of which is to discourage critical reflection.
- It is the product of groupthink.
- It is something you are asked to accept wholesale.
- What is it?
I'll accept either a noun or an adjective. A noun could be a standard metaphor, like Rorschach test.