Alienness: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from 'alien', which is derived from the Latin word 'alienus', meaning 'belonging to another'.
• Adding '-ness' to 'alien' creates a noun that describes a state or quality, much like 'happiness' describes the state of being happy.
• The usage of this term in modern English dates back to the early 20th century, reflecting increasing discussions around multiculturalism.

Cultural Significance

• In many cultures, 'alienness' often evokes a sense of otherness, leading to themes of acceptance and integration in societal discussions.
• Literature, such as sci-fi novels, often explores alienness through characters from other worlds, illustrating humanity's fears and curiosity about the unknown.
• Films frequently portray alienness in various forms, prompting viewers to reflect on what it means to belong or to be different.

Psychology

• Experiencing alienness can lead to feelings of isolation, as individuals may struggle to find commonalities with those around them.
• Studies suggest that the sensation of alienness can enhance creativity, as it pushes individuals to think outside conventional boundaries.
• The concept also plays a significant role in identity formation during adolescence, where cultural alienness can impact self-perception.

Science

• In astrobiology, discussions about alienness often relate to the search for extraterrestrial life, invoking the concept of life forms vastly different from those on Earth.
• Theories about multiverses and alternate realities also bring alienness into scientific discourse, exploring existence beyond our current understanding.
• Technological advancements in communication with databases of knowledge can spark debates on what constitutes alienness in terms of artificial intelligence.

Art

• Artists often use themes of alienness to express societal commentary, highlighting issues such as immigration, race, and belonging.
• Modern art frequently embraces alienness as a celebration of diversity, showing beauty in things that seem different or unknown.
• Installation art, such as that found in contemporary galleries, often uses foreign objects to evoke feelings of alienness in viewers.