Use Compassion, Not Dehumanization
by Andrew Downing
Whether you accept it or not, you have dehumanized someone.
Dehumanization occurs when we speak about a person or a group to make them seem inferior, usually by inferring that they are somehow lacking in knowledge, moral character, social awareness, honor, societal duty, or an understanding of cultural norms and customs. We do this purposely to diminish someone's thoughts, feelings, or rights, but we also do it unconsciously. Dehumanization can be as subtle as expressing an adverse opinion or just invoking a negative emotional reaction. We say things without comprehending the full meaning of our words, but they are damaging.
If you are reading the 50/50 Newsletter, then I am sure, like me, you have strong opinions, which can then lead to disagreements. That's when we must be mindful about what we say. When we disagree with someone, it is easier to judge them and discount their individual experiences than it is to open yourself up to connection, empathy, and compassion. Instead of doing the hard work and finding common ground, we dismiss opposing opinions using subtle words, treating them as "less than." We write them off by labeling them. The label may be subtle, but the intention is to categorize them as someone whose opinions are wrong, outdated, uneducated, or inferior. The extreme examples are prejudices against race, gender, age, or religion. Less extreme examples involve differences in beliefs, appearances, upbringing, political views, education, background, experiences, perspectives, motives, or values.
When we think of dehumanizing someone, we often think in extremes. But dehumanization has become a frequent occurrence in our everyday lives. How often do we hear "Ok, Boomer" or call someone a "Karen?" These colloquialisms may appear harmless, but they are perfect examples of discounting someone's personal experience. We unknowingly do it all the time. We lessen someone's opinion and forget about compassion.
Stop dehumanizing and start understanding. It's easy to dismiss someone you oppose, but leaders must be better than that. We must act with empathy. We must regard our similarities and overlook our differences.
The moral are never justified when judging the immoral. Leaders understand these complexities. It will always be difficult for the strong to protect the weak, the righteous to defend the abhorrent, the loud to hear the quiet, the just to bestow mercy, and the popular to befriend the outcast. As a leader you are entrusted to look out for the well-being of everyone, and that includes the Karens, the Boomers, and everyone you disagree with. Strong leaders are compassionate. They open their hearts and lead without judgement.