Dehumanizáció

Dehumanizáció is a term used to describe the psychological process of stripping away the humanity of an individual or group. This process often involves portraying others as less than human, emphasizing their animalistic or object-like qualities. By doing so, it becomes easier for perpetrators to justify mistreatment, violence, or discrimination against the targeted group. Dehumanization can manifest in various ways, including propaganda, hate speech, and the denial of basic rights and dignity. It is a significant factor in historical and contemporary conflicts, genocides, and systemic oppression. Understanding dehumanization is crucial for recognizing and combating prejudice and its devastating consequences. It involves a psychological distancing that makes it easier to inflict harm without experiencing empathy or guilt. This can happen on both an individual and a collective level, shaping social attitudes and justifying harmful actions.