Othering

Definition

Othering is a social and psychological process that involves perceiving or treating a person or group as fundamentally different or alien from oneself. This process creates a division between 'us' and 'them', often leading to discrimination, marginalization, and the reinforcement of social hierarchies. In the context of Colonial America, othering played a crucial role in constructing racial identities and justifying the oppression of indigenous peoples and enslaved Africans.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Colonial America, othering was used to justify the enslavement of Africans by portraying them as inferior and subhuman compared to European settlers.
2. Indigenous peoples were also subjected to othering, as colonizers viewed them as obstacles to progress and civilization, leading to their displacement and violence against them.
3. The concept of 'the other' reinforced a sense of superiority among European colonists, shaping societal norms and legal structures that privileged white settlers.
4. Othering contributed to the creation of rigid racial categories that would later inform laws such as the Slave Codes and policies regarding land ownership and citizenship.
5. The legacy of othering continues to impact contemporary society, influencing issues related to race, immigration, and cultural identity.

Review Questions

• How did the process of othering manifest in the treatment of enslaved Africans during Colonial America?
  • Othering manifested in the treatment of enslaved Africans through dehumanization, where they were seen not as individuals but as property or commodities. This perception allowed for brutal practices in the institution of slavery, justified by false narratives that depicted Africans as less civilized. As a result, this created a social hierarchy that placed white colonists above enslaved individuals, reinforcing systems of oppression that defined their existence.
• Discuss how othering influenced the legal frameworks established during Colonial America and their long-term implications.
  • Othering influenced legal frameworks in Colonial America by creating laws that institutionalized racial discrimination and segregation. The Slave Codes are a prime example, as they were designed to control enslaved people by stripping them of rights and denying them personhood. These laws not only reflected societal views on race but also entrenched systemic inequalities that persisted long after the colonial period, shaping future legal systems and race relations in America.
• Evaluate the lasting effects of othering on contemporary society, particularly in relation to race and identity politics.
  • The lasting effects of othering are evident in contemporary society through ongoing racial tensions and identity politics. The historical processes of othering have laid the groundwork for systemic racism and inequality, impacting marginalized communities today. Additionally, debates around immigration, cultural identity, and social justice are heavily influenced by the perceptions created by othering. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for addressing current issues of equity and representation in society.

Related terms

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring and maintaining control over foreign territories, often involving the exploitation of resources and subjugation of local populations.

Racialization: The social and political processes through which groups are assigned racial identities, often based on perceived physical differences, leading to systemic inequalities.

Xenophobia: An irrational fear or dislike of people from other countries or cultures, often rooted in the desire to protect one's own cultural identity.