Answer:
C. As a way of describing a loosely defined political movement.
Explanation:
Progressiveness refers to a political movement that was started in the United States around 1890 up to 1920. Initially focused to curb the ill effects of industrialization, urbanization, securing rights for women, etc later approached political action for their social causes. It considered government as a vital tool for change and there look up to the government to take strong steps to control big corporate organization, nationalize banking system, etc.