👩‍👩‍👦intro to sociology review

Genocide

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Genocide is the deliberate and systematic extermination of a national, racial, political, or cultural group. It aims to destroy the identity and existence of targeted groups through mass killings, serious bodily or mental harm, and other acts intended to bring about their obliteration.