Barbarize: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'barbarize' comes from 'barbarian,' which originally referred to people who did not speak Greek, and sounded like 'bar-bar' to Greeks.
• This term has been used since the late 19th century to describe the process of becoming uncivilized or rough in behavior.
• The suffix '-ize' implies a transformation or process, indicating a shift towards barbaric qualities.

Cultural Perspectives

• The concept of barbarism has historically been used to distinguish 'civilized' societies from those deemed 'primitive' or 'savage' by outsiders.
• In literature, barbarize often reflects the tensions between civilization and wildness, serving as a theme in works from ancient times to modern narratives.
• Certain historical events, like colonialism, were justified by the idea of 'civilizing' 'barbaric' peoples, showcasing the biased use of the term.

Psychology

• Psychologically, perceiving others as barbaric can lead to dehumanization, making it easier to justify violence against them.
• Social psychology suggests that labeling a group as 'barbaric' can create in-group and out-group dynamics, fostering conflict.
• Research indicates that describing behaviors as barbaric can affect how we empathize with individuals or groups marked by that label.

Literature

• In 'The Tempest,' Shakespeare explores themes of civilization vs. barbarism, prompting readers to question what truly defines a civilized being.
• Modern authors often critique and redefine barbarism in their works, challenging traditional narratives about civilization.
• Dystopian literature frequently depicts societies where barbarization has occurred, exploring the consequences of losing touch with humanity.

Sociology

• Studies in sociology show that discussions of barbarism often reveal cultural biases, leading to misunderstandings between societies.
• The notion of barbarism may also refer to cultural practices that are considered deviant or unacceptable by a dominant culture, highlighting power dynamics.
• In globalization, the term 'barbarize' can be used to critique the loss of cultural identity amidst homogenization of global cultures.