scapegoating

Scapegoating is a social-psychological process in which an individual or group is unfairly blamed for problems or misfortunes, often to deflect responsibility from those who hold power. The term traces its origins to ancient practices described in biblical texts, where a scapegoat symbolically bore the sins of the community. In modern usage, scapegoating involves attributing blame to a marginalized or subordinate group to preserve the self-image of a dominant group or to unify others through shared hostility.

Mechanisms include projection, where uncomfortable feelings are attributed to others; deindividuation and in-group/out-group dynamics that silence dissent; and tendencies to adopt simple explanations that reduce complexity. Scapegoating can occur at individual, organizational, or societal levels, including politics, media, and law.

Consequences include stigmatization, discrimination, violence, and the erosion of accountability for those who actually bear responsibility. Repeated scapegoating can reinforce power imbalances and undermine trust, diverting attention from systemic problems and legitimate grievances.

Historical examples range from ethnic or religious targeting during crises to witch hunts, while contemporary cases appear in anti-immigrant rhetoric, workplace harassment during organizational change, or blaming minorities for public health or economic woes. Scholars generally view scapegoating as a maladaptive mechanism that can aid short-term social cohesion but impairs long-term problem solving. Reducing scapegoating often involves transparency, inclusive dialogue, accountability, and critical examination of who benefits from blaming others.