The word "human" has been used to describe people for centuries, but it wasn't always used to describe everyone. There was a time when certain groups of people were excluded from being considered fully human.
Slaves weren't considered humans during colonial times, and women weren't considered humans until they started demanding their rights in the early 20th century. In recent years, there have been debates about whether non-humans like animals should also be recognized as humans. But what determines who is considered human? Politics plays a big role in this. Politicians often name those who are part of their political party "human" while denying that status to others. This can lead to harmful consequences, such as discrimination against marginalized communities. It's important to understand how politics affects our perception of who is human and why.
Politicians have historically used language to define and redefine which groups are human.
During the American Civil War, Confederate politicians argued that African Americans weren't fully human because they were seen as inferior to white Europeans. They believed that black people had fewer rights than white people. In modern times, conservative politicians often use similar rhetoric to deny LGBTQ+ individuals equal rights. They argue that homosexuality goes against God's will or that it isn't natural. This ignores the fact that many people identify as LGBTQ+ and don't want their sexual orientation or gender identity to be defined by anyone else. Instead of using religion to justify these views, they could simply say that everyone deserves the same basic rights regardless of their sexuality or gender identity.
More recently, politicians have used the term "illegal immigrant" to dehumanize undocumented migrants. By calling them criminals rather than people seeking refuge, they make it easier for voters to support policies that hurt them. The term "illegal" implies that these immigrants are less worthy of compassion and respect. Some politicians even go so far as to call them "animals." These statements are dangerous because they devalue a group of humans and create hostility towards them. Politics can also influence what we consider "normal" in terms of sex and relationships. Political leaders may oppose abortion or contraception, claiming that they are unnatural. But these choices should be up to each individual, not dictated by lawmakers.
The way we define who is human affects how we treat those groups. If someone isn't considered fully human, then they may not receive healthcare, education, or legal protections. This can lead to widespread inequality and discrimination. It's important to remember that all people deserve dignity, respect, and equality, regardless of their identities or backgrounds. The next time you hear a politician use language to exclude certain groups from being human, challenge them and demand better. We must work together to create a world where everyone is recognized and valued as a human being.
How does the politics of naming determine who is recognized as human within public discourse?
The politics of naming refers to the power dynamics involved in how individuals and groups are referred to by certain labels and identities. It can also involve issues related to gender identity, race, ethnicity, and religion. The act of naming someone can have significant consequences for their sense of self and belonging in society. In terms of determining who is recognized as human within public discourse, it often depends on whether they fit into dominant cultural norms and expectations about what it means to be "human.