Erisäännön

Erisääntö is a Finnish term that translates to "rule of estrangement" or "estrangement rule" in English. It refers to a principle or practice, often found in traditional or rural communities, where individuals who deviate significantly from established social norms or norms of behavior are deliberately excluded or ostracized. This exclusion is not necessarily a formal punishment but rather a social mechanism to maintain community cohesion and enforce conformity.

The origins of erisääntö are rooted in the need for social order and predictability in smaller, close-knit societies where individual actions can have a more profound impact on the group. By isolating those who act as outsiders or disrupt the established way of life, the community aims to reinforce its values and prevent the spread of what is perceived as undesirable behavior. This can manifest in various ways, such as social avoidance, gossip, or a general refusal to interact with the individual.

While erisääntö can serve to maintain stability, it can also lead to significant hardship for the individual being estranged. They may experience loneliness, economic difficulties, and a lack of social support. In modern society, the concept of erisääntö is less prevalent in its overt forms, but elements of social exclusion and ostracism can still be observed in various social contexts. The term itself highlights a cultural understanding of the consequences of non-conformity within certain societal structures.