Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Dehumanization is the process of depriving individuals of their human qualities, rights, and dignity. It involves treating people as less than human and denying their worth and value.
Related terms
Objectification: Objectification occurs when individuals are treated as objects for others' use, pleasure, or convenience rather than as autonomous beings.
Marginalization: Marginalization refers to pushing certain individuals or groups to the edges of society, making them feel insignificant and powerless.
Discrimination: Discrimination involves unfair treatment based on characteristics such as race, gender, religion, etc., which can lead to dehumanizing experiences.