DEHUMANISE

Definition of DEHUMANISE

DEHUMANISE Verb

Dehumanise is a verb that means to strip individuals of their human qualities or dignity, making them seem less than human. It involves treating people in a way that reduces their perceived worth or humanity, often leading to their marginalization or mistreatment.

To Strip of Human Qualities: As a verb, dehumanise means to remove or diminish the human qualities or dignity of individuals. For example, “The oppressive regime sought to dehumanise its prisoners through harsh and inhumane treatment,” indicates that the regime aimed to strip prisoners of their humanity.

To Undermine Dignity: Dehumanise can also refer to actions that undermine the dignity and respect of individuals. For instance, “The use of dehumanising language in the media can erode public empathy and respect for marginalized groups,” shows how language can be used to undermine dignity.

To Marginalize or Mistreat: In another context, dehumanise describes actions that lead to the marginalization or mistreatment of individuals by denying their human value. For example, “Dehumanising practices in workplaces can lead to decreased morale and productivity,” demonstrates how such practices affect employee well-being.

Context in Social and Psychological Settings: Dehumanise is a significant concept in social and psychological contexts, where it relates to the impact of treatment on individuals’ mental and emotional health. For example, “Experiencing dehumanisation can have profound psychological effects, leading to feelings of worthlessness and distress,” emphasizes its impact on mental health.

Importance in Human Rights and Ethics: Understanding dehumanise is crucial in discussions of human rights and ethics, as it highlights the importance of maintaining respect and dignity for all individuals. For instance, “Efforts to combat dehumanising behavior are central to human rights advocacy and ethical practices,” illustrates its role in promoting equality and respect.

Impact on Interpersonal Relationships and Society: Recognizing dehumanise helps in fostering healthy interpersonal relationships and creating a fairer society. For example, “Reducing dehumanising behavior in social interactions can lead to more respectful and empathetic relationships,” shows its role in improving social dynamics and understanding.

Dehumanise is a verb that involves stripping individuals of their human qualities or dignity, reducing their perceived worth or humanity. It refers to actions that undermine respect, dignity, and humanity, leading to marginalization or mistreatment. Understanding dehumanise is essential for addressing issues related to human dignity, respect, and ethical treatment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the inherent value of all individuals.

Examples of DEHUMANISE in a sentence

  • Propaganda is often used to dehumanise the enemy, making it easier for people to justify violence.
  • The harsh working conditions in the factory seemed to dehumanise the employees, treating them like machines.
  • Using derogatory language can dehumanise individuals and strip them of their dignity.
  • In the film, the oppressive regime sought to dehumanise its citizens by controlling every aspect of their lives.
  • History has shown that regimes that dehumanise certain groups are capable of committing atrocities.
  • By neglecting the basic needs of prisoners, the system tends to dehumanise them further.
  • The novel explores how technology can dehumanise society, reducing personal interactions to mere transactions.
  • Political rhetoric that dehumanises immigrants fuels xenophobia and hatred.

Origin of DEHUMANISE

Dehumanise traces its origins back to the Latin word dehumanizāre, which means “to remove human qualities from” or “to treat as less than human.” This term combines de- (down, away) and humanus (human).

  • Latin: Dehumanizāre (to remove human qualities), from de- (down, away) and humanus (human).
  • Early Modern English: The Latin dehumanizāre evolved into Early Modern English as dehumanize, meaning “to deprive of human qualities or attributes.”
  • Modern English: The term entered Modern English as dehumanise, referring to the act of depriving individuals of their human qualities or dignity.

In contemporary English, dehumanise refers to the act of treating people as less than human, removing their individuality or dignity. It emphasizes actions or processes that strip away human attributes, often leading to the degradation or mistreatment of individuals. The term has evolved from its Latin roots of removing human qualities to describe behaviors that undermine or deny human dignity. Dehumanise highlights the impact of actions that diminish others’ humanity and respect.

Synonyms

  • Degrade
  • Devalue
  • Objectify
  • Deprive of dignity
  • Brutalize
  • Insult
  • Disparage
  • Belittle

Antonyms

  • Humanize
  • Respect
  • Uplift
  • Empower
  • Honor
  • Value
  • Appreciate
  • Elevate

Related

  • Degradation
  • Objectification
  • Disrespect
  • Abuse
  • Oppression
  • Devaluation
  • Brutality
  • Inhumanity

🌐 🇬🇧 DEHUMANISE in other languages

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