patternism
/ˈpat(ə)nɪz(ə)m/ /ˈpatənɪz(ə)m/noun
Analysis based upon the identification of recurrent patterns; specifically the practice of describing or classifying religions (especially those of the Eastern Mediterranean region) by recurrent patterns rather than by historical development.
Origin
1950s; earliest use found in Journal of Theological Studies. From pattern + -ism, after patternist.