Demonization

From Free net encyclopedia

Demonization is the characterization of individuals, groups, or political bodies as evil or subhuman for purposes of justifying and making plausible an attack, whether in the form of character assassination, legal action, circumscribing of political liberties, or warfare. The purpose is to facilitate oppressive actions against the demonized individual or group, ranging from ostracism to genocide.

Demonizing an individual, group or culture generally involves a suspension of the normal considerations of humane behaviour and respect. Given that the subjects of demonization are portrayed as evil and/or subhuman beyond any dispute, then any means of self-defense is considered legitimate, in proportion to the threat represented. In United States history, a noteworthy example of demonization is to be found in the attitudes and practices of white Southerners - and others - towards Black people in the period 1865-1965, epitomized in the widespread practice of lynching.

One purpose of the demonization of individuals - as opposed to groups - is to divert attention from their arguments, and discredit them personally by ad hominem attacks. Proving that they are Fascists, Communists, Racists, Religious Nuts or some other despised category of individuals is particularly effective not only in undermining individuals with controversial views, but in isolating them from public support. Whereas before the attack, supporters were under the impression that they were defending for example, free speech or constitutional rights, afterwords they themselves risk being accused of condoning Homophobia, or Jihadism, or some other similarly despised viewpoint.