Title
The Toxicity of Otherness
Publication Date
Fall 12-12-2018
Abstract
This article discusses the dangerous philosophical principle of Othering, wherein a group of people are ostracized for being different from the majority. While categorization of information is a fundamental aspect of how the brain works, the categorization of people homogenizes their complexities. In doing so, a group is seen as a single entity, rather than individuals, which strips them of their humanity. After a group has been Othered, society will inevitably invoke some method of forced displacement upon them. Additionally, the article emphasizes the importance of affected individuals telling the stories of their experiences with oppression from Othering. Sharing one’s personal experience in this way breaks down the barrier formed by societal Othering, reinstating an empathetic connection.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Malone, Justin R. The Toxicity of Otherness. 2018. Kutztown University, Pennsylvania.
