Instrumentalizáló

Instrumentalizáló is a Hungarian term used to describe a person, group, or process that instrumentalizes someone or something—treats it as a means to achieve an ulterior goal rather than as an end in itself. The noun form instrumentalizálás denotes the act of instrumentalizing, while instrumentalizáló can refer to the agent or mechanism that performs this act. The verb instrumentalizálni means to instrumentalize.

Etymology and scope: The word is formed from instrumentalizál- (to instrumentalize) with the suffix -ó, yielding both the agent noun and the participial adjective. In scholarly and journalistic usage, instrumentalizálás often characterizes the use of people, groups, institutions, or symbols as tools for political, ideological, or economic aims.

Applications and examples: In social science and policy debates, instrumentalizálás is discussed in contexts such as the instrumental use of minorities or religious communities in political campaigns, the instrumentalization of data or media narratives, and the instrumental handling of humanitarian crises. The term distinguishes between legitimate engagement with interests and the reduction of subjects to mere instruments for others’ ends.

Ethical and critical perspective: Instrumentalizálás is frequently criticized for compromising autonomy, dignity, or rights by treating individuals or groups as expendable means. Critics argue that it erodes ethical standards and may undermine trust and legitimacy in institutions.

See also: instrumentalizálás, instrumentalizálás elmélete, instrumentalizált politika.